In Islam, the sacrifice of an Eid ram during Eid al-Adha (Qurbani/Udhiyah) follows clear Sunnah guidelines based on the practice of Prophet Muhammad.
1. Choose a Good Ram (Sunnah Selection)
The ram should:
- Be healthy and strong
- Have no defects (no blindness, lameness, or illness)
- Have good appearance (preferred: white, horned ram as used by the Prophet ﷺ)
2. Treat the Animal Kindly Before Sacrifice
Sunnah teaches mercy:
- Feed and water the ram well
- Do not sharpen the knife in front of it
- Keep it calm and away from stress
- Lay it gently facing the Qiblah
3. Make the Correct Intention (Niyyah)
Before sacrifice, the person should intend:
- That it is for Allah alone
- As an act of worship and obedience
4. Recite the Sunnah Words During Slaughter
Say:
- “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar”
- Optional du‘a: “Inna salati wa nusuki wa mahyaya wa mamati lillahi Rabbil ‘alamin”
This means the sacrifice is dedicated to Allah alone.
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5. Proper Slaughter Method
- Use a very sharp knife
- Cut quickly to minimise suffering
- Ensure the throat, windpipe, and blood vessels are properly cut
- Allow the animal to bleed fully
6. Distribution of Meat (Sunnah Practice)
The meat is divided into three parts:
- One-third for the family
- One-third for relatives and friends
- One-third for the poor and needy
This encourages charity and sharing.
7. Do Not Sell Anything From the Sacrifice
According to Sunnah:
- The meat, skin, and parts should not be sold
- Even the butcher’s payment should not be given from it (he is paid separately)
8. Eat From Your Sacrifice
It is Sunnah for the person offering the sacrifice to:
- Eat part of the meat
- Show gratitude to Allah
9. Remember the Purpose
The sacrifice reflects obedience to Allah and the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim, who was willing to sacrifice his son before Allah replaced him with a ram.