It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him (Quran 22:37). Before proceeding with Qurbani, let us ensure the ‘sacrifice’ of our own imperfections—the ego, harmful speech, false commitments, and environmental negligence. True devotion begins with a sincere purification of the self and our conduct.
Muneer Ahmed
As the joyous occasion of Eid al-Adha dawns upon us, marking the culmination of the Hajj pilgrimage and commemorating the profound devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him), our thoughts naturally turn to the ritual of Qurbani – the animal sacrifice. However, before engaging in this outward act of worship, we must reflect deeply on the more fundamental and often overlooked sacrifices that the spirit of Islam calls upon us to make. True devotion, as illuminated by the Holy Quran, begins with a sincere purification of the self and our conduct.
Eid al-Adha is not merely about the shedding of blood; it is a powerful spiritual journey of submission and a testament to unwavering faith. The Almighty declares in the Quran: “It is not their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him.” (Quran 22:37) This verse profoundly emphasises that the essence of sacrifice lies in our righteous intentions and inner purity, not merely the physical act. Therefore, before we proceed with the Qurbani, let us collectively ensure the “sacrifice” of our own imperfections, paving the way for a more meaningful and truly blessed Eid.
First and foremost, the sacrifice of the SELF (Nafs). This internal struggle and cleansing are paramount. The Quran often speaks of striving against one’s base desires and ego. To truly submit to Allah means to subjugate the dictates of our lower self to divine will. This includes a conscious effort to purify our intentions and actions.
Secondly, the words of the Tongue that are injurious. Our speech has immense power, capable of building bridges or burning them. Islam places great emphasis on the integrity and kindness of one’s words. The Quran warns against backbiting, slander, and hurtful speech: “O you who have believed, avoid much [negative] assumption. Indeed, some assumption is sin. And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would abhor it.” (Quran 49:12) On this blessed occasion, let us commit to guarding our tongues, speaking only that which is truthful, kind, and beneficial, thereby sacrificing harmful rhetoric for wholesome communication.
Thirdly, discarding the “pomp and show,” false commitments, and luxurious excesses. The true spirit of Eid lies in humility, gratitude, and sharing, not in ostentatious displays or materialism. The Quran cautions against extravagance and pride: “Indeed, Allah does not like those who are conceited and boastful.” (Quran 31:18) Furthermore, false commitments, whether to our faith, our families, or our communities, undermine trust and integrity. This Eid, let us strive for sincerity in our intentions and actions, shedding superficiality for genuine devotion and generosity, recognising that true wealth lies in righteousness and contentment.
Fourthly, a critical civic and religious duty: responsible disposal of slaughter waste into pits, rather than water bodies or roadsides. While not explicitly in the Quran regarding Qurbani waste, the overarching Islamic principles emphasise cleanliness, hygiene, and environmental stewardship. The Quran stresses the importance of maintaining order and not causing corruption on earth: “And do not cause corruption upon the earth after its reformation.” (Quran 7:56). Littering and improper disposal of waste, especially organic matter, pollute our environment, endanger public health, and are a clear act of corruption. It is incumbent upon every Muslim to ensure that the remains of the sacrifice are disposed of hygienically, preferably by burying them in designated pits, thereby upholding cleanliness and showing respect for Allah’s creation and our community.
Finally, ensuring your safety and the safety of others. The process of Qurbani, if not handled with care, can lead to preventable accidents. Islam prioritises the preservation of life and well-being. The Quran states: “And do not throw [yourselves] with your own hands into destruction.” (Quran 2:195) This verse, while broad, encompasses taking necessary precautions for safety. Adhering to proper procedures, using appropriate tools, and maintaining a secure environment during the sacrifice are not just practical steps but also reflective of our commitment to responsible conduct in all matters.
Eid al-Adha presents a profound opportunity for spiritual renewal and communal betterment. By first focusing on these integral internal and external sacrifices – taming our ego and tongue, rejecting materialism and insincerity, embracing environmental responsibility, and prioritising safety – we can truly embody the spirit of Qurbani. Let this blessed Eid be a catalyst for positive transformation, both within ourselves and in our beloved communities, aligning our actions with the sublime teachings of the Holy Quran.
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