Aqeeqah is an important Islamic ritual that involves the sacrifice of an animal as a sign of gratitude and an act of charity in the name of a newborn child. While not obligatory, it holds great significance in Islam as it is rooted in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. It is a practice that symbolizes the connection between the newborn and their family with Allah, and it is also a means of seeking blessings for the child’s future. This article explores everything you need to know about Aqeeqah.
The Purpose and Significance of Aqeeqah
Aqeeqah is performed to celebrate the birth of a child and express thanks to Allah for the gift of life. It is an opportunity for the family to demonstrate their gratitude and share their joy with others, especially the poor. The sacrifice of an animal (typically a goat, sheep, cow, or camel) is also a way to seek protection for the newborn from any harm or negative influence.
The practice of Aqeeqah is mentioned in several Hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), indicating its importance. The Prophet Muhammad said, “For a boy, two sheep, and for a girl, one sheep.” This Hadith underlines the tradition of sacrificing animals as part of the Aqeeqah ritual.
When Should Aqeeqah Be Performed?
Aqeeqah is recommended to be performed on the seventh day after the birth of the child. However, if it is not possible to do so on that specific day, it can be delayed and performed at any time before the child reaches the age of two. It is common for families to choose the seventh day because of its connection to the Hadiths, but the essential aspect is performing it as soon as possible after the birth.
The Animal Sacrifice
The type of animal sacrificed during Aqeeqah depends on the gender of the child. For a male child, two animals (usually goats or sheep) are sacrificed, and for a female child, one animal is typically sacrificed. The animal should meet the Islamic requirements for sacrifice: it must be healthy, of the appropriate age, and slaughtered according to the correct Islamic methods (halal).
The meat from the sacrifice is distributed to the needy and the poor as a form of charity. The family may also keep a portion of the meat for themselves, and some traditions suggest that a portion should be prepared for a meal and shared with friends and family. You can donate via an Aqeeqah charity that then shares the meat from the animal with those who need it most.
The Rituals Involved in Aqeeqah
Along with the sacrifice, several customs are traditionally observed during Aqeeqah:
- Shaving the Baby’s Head: It is a Sunnah (recommended practice) to shave the head of the newborn on the seventh day after birth. The shaved hair is weighed, and the equivalent weight in silver is given in charity to the poor.
- Naming the Child: The child is also named on this day if it hasn’t already been done. The name is usually chosen to reflect good meanings and virtues, and some families may wait for Aqeeqah to hold a small celebration where the name is announced.
- Sharing the Meat: As mentioned earlier, the meat of the sacrificed animal is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor. This distribution symbolizes sharing the joy of the child’s birth with those in need.
The Benefits of Aqeeqah
Performing Aqeeqah brings numerous spiritual and social benefits. It is an act of charity that purifies the family’s wealth and increases their blessings. It is also a way of seeking Allah’s protection for the child and ensuring that they grow up in a blessed environment. Additionally, it strengthens bonds within the community by encouraging the sharing of blessings with those less fortunate.