Who Must Offer Qurbani? Eligibility According to Islamic Law

As Eid ul Adha approaches, many Muslims begin preparing for the spiritual and practical aspects of Qurbani, or the ritual animal sacrifice. Among the most frequently asked questions is, who should do Qurbani? Understanding this is crucial because it determines whether or not one is religiously obligated to perform this significant act of devotion. Qurbani is more than a tradition—it’s a reflection of sacrifice, obedience, and sharing, rooted in the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

Who Should Do Qurbani During Eid ul Adha?

Islamic scholars agree that Qurbani is an obligation (wajib) for every adult Muslim who meets specific financial criteria. According to most schools of thought, including Hanafi jurisprudence, who should do Qurbani is determined by the following key factors:

• The person must be a Muslim.
• They must be of sound mind and have reached the age of puberty.
• They must possess wealth equal to or greater than the nisab threshold (the minimum amount that makes one eligible to pay Zakat).

This means that Qurbani is not required for children, those who are mentally incapacitated, or financially incapable individuals. For example, if someone owns wealth or assets that exceed the nisab level (roughly equivalent to 87.48 grams of gold or 612.36 grams of silver), and this wealth is surplus after basic needs, debts, and immediate expenses, they are eligible—and therefore obligated—to offer Qurbani.

Financial Eligibility: Understanding the Nisab

The nisab is a monetary benchmark in Islamic finance that determines financial obligation in acts such as Zakat and Qurbani. As of recent estimates, the nisab based on silver is more commonly used, making it more accessible and applicable to a broader group of Muslims. Individuals with wealth above the nisab for one full lunar year become financially eligible to do Qurbani.

Financial eligibility isn’t limited to liquid cash. Jewelry, stocks, trade goods, and surplus possessions can all contribute to the nisab. For example, if someone owns gold worth $500 and has no debts, they may fall within the obligation range for Qurbani. Local scholars and mosques often announce the nisab value in local currency ahead of Eid to help Muslims calculate their status.

Referencing the Zakat Foundation calculator can help estimate current nisab values more accurately in your region.

Who Is Not Required to Perform Qurbani?

Islam offers compassion and flexibility for those who may be in difficult financial or social circumstances. You are not required to perform Qurbani if you fall under the following categories:

• Children who have not reached puberty
• Individuals who are mentally unwell or legally incapacitated
• Those whose net assets are below the nisab threshold
• Debtors with obligations that reduce their net wealth below nisab

Furthermore, if someone is traveling and finds it impractical to perform Qurbani, scholars suggest that it is permissible to delegate the sacrifice to a trusted person or service back home. This way, the act is still fulfilled without hardship.

Common Misunderstandings Around Qurbani Obligation

There are several misconceptions that lead to confusion regarding who should do Qurbani:

• “It’s only for wealthy people.” — In reality, even middle-income earners who meet the nisab are obligated.
• “Only men should perform Qurbani.” — This is false. Women who meet the financial criteria must also offer Qurbani.
• “If one family member offers Qurbani, the rest are exempt.” — Each eligible member of the household must perform Qurbani individually unless they are dependents.

Clearing up these misunderstandings ensures the proper observance of Islamic principles and avoids unintentional negligence.

Delegating Qurbani: Is It Allowed?

Yes, delegation is permitted. A Muslim can authorize another person, organization, or Qurbani service to perform the sacrifice on their behalf. This is especially common in urban environments or for those living in areas where livestock sacrifice is not feasible. The person delegating must still make the intention (niyyah) before the act takes place.

Online services that offer Qurbani in different countries are popular and convenient. As seen in related updates from Islamic organizations, these services often ensure that Qurbani is carried out according to the rules and the meat is distributed to those in need.

What If You Forget to Perform Qurbani?

If someone was eligible and missed Qurbani without a valid reason, they are encouraged to offer the equivalent value in Sadaqah (charity) as a form of compensation. However, this does not substitute the reward and spiritual fulfillment of performing Qurbani itself. Intending to offer Qurbani and then failing to do so without cause is not encouraged in Islam.

FAQs About Qurbani Eligibility

Is Qurbani mandatory for every Muslim?

No, Qurbani is only mandatory for adult, sane Muslims who possess wealth above the nisab threshold. Children and financially dependent individuals are not obligated.

Can a woman perform Qurbani?

Yes, women who meet the financial requirements must perform Qurbani. Gender does not exempt one from this obligation.

Is Qurbani required every year?

Yes, if a Muslim continues to meet the eligibility criteria annually, they must offer Qurbani every year during Eid ul Adha.

Can someone else do Qurbani on my behalf?

Yes, Qurbani can be delegated to another person or service, but the niyyah must still be made by the one on whose behalf it is performed.

What if I become eligible after Eid starts?

If you meet the financial threshold during the days of Qurbani (10th–12th Dhul Hijjah), you are obligated to perform the sacrifice before the window closes.