The story of Qurbani: A legacy of faith and devotion

Each year during Eid al-Adha, Muslims around the world commemorate an extraordinary moment of devotion – the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and the unwavering obedience he and his son Ismail (AS) showed to Allah.

This ritual, known as Qurbani, is one of the most profound acts of worship in Islam, rooted in history, faith, and compassion.

Who is Prophet Ibrahim (AS) in Islam?

Prophet Ibrahim (AS), also known as Prophet Abraham, is one of the greatest and most honoured prophets in Islam. Referred to as Khalilullah – the Friend of Allah – he is revered not only for his role as a prophet but also as a model of absolute submission to Allah’s will.

His legacy is central to the Abrahamic faiths, and he is considered a patriarch of monotheism.

In the Qur’an, Ibrahim (AS) is described as a man of truth, unwavering in his faith. He rejected the idol worship of his time and endured immense hardship to uphold tawheed (the oneness of God). Allah tested him repeatedly – through exile, loneliness, and personal sacrifice – and each time, he responded with obedience and trust.

The ultimate test: The sacrifice of his son

Among the most powerful stories in Islamic tradition is the test Allah placed before Ibrahim (AS): a command to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (AS). This was no ordinary child. Ismail (AS) was born after years of longing and du’a, a gift to Ibrahim (AS) and his wife Hajar after a lifetime of patience and hope.

When Ismail (AS) was old enough to walk and accompany his father, Ibrahim (AS) began seeing a dream in which he was commanded to sacrifice his son. The dream recurred, and as prophets’ dreams are a form of divine revelation, Ibrahim (AS) understood that this was Allah’s command.

He went to his son and said, as recorded in the Qur’an:

“O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I must sacrifice you. So what do you think?”
[Surah As-Saffat, 37:102]

To this, Ismail (AS) replied without hesitation:

“O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.”
[Surah As-Saffat, 37:102]

They both submitted – father and son, united in faith. Ibrahim (AS) laid his son down and prepared to carry out the sacrifice. But just as the blade was about to descend, Allah intervened. A voice called out, telling him he had fulfilled the vision. A ram was sent from heaven to be sacrificed in Ismail’s place.

This was not about taking a life – it was about proving a heart. Allah was demonstrating to the world the power of submission and the reward of faith.

Why Qurbani matters to Muslims today

This moment of devotion is commemorated every year during Eid al-Adha. Muslims who are financially able are required to perform Qurbani by sacrificing an animal, such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, following the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

The meat from this sacrifice is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for relatives and friends, and one-third for those in need. This act is a powerful reminder that faith must be paired with compassion – and that sacrifice, in Islam, is not only about what we give up, but who we support.

Qurbani is a way of reconnecting with the legacy of devotion that Ibrahim (AS) left behind. It is a time of humility, reflection, and giving.

Giving Qurbani through IF Charity

At IF Charity, we uphold the spirit of Qurbani by delivering meat to families in Gaza who would otherwise be unable to celebrate Eid. In previous years, this used to be fresh, local meat. But given the current circumstances,  our options are to either send canned meat or fresh meat from outside the Gaza Strip.

In a land where almost all of the population relies on humanitarian aid, your Qurbani can bring both nourishment and joy.

• £30 can provide a family in Gaza with a 2kg fresh meat parcel
• £115 can provide a Qurbani for you, and deliver canned meat to the Gaza Strip

This year, as you perform your Qurbani, remember the sacrifice of Ibrahim (AS) and the hope it continues to inspire. Follow in his footsteps – submit, trust, and give.

Give your Qurbani with IF Charity today →