Eid al-Adha is here. The takbir is being chanted. Sacrificial animals are being prepared. However, many Muslims, despite being financially capable, choose not to perform the sacrifice. Is this permissible? What is the ruling on not sacrificing despite being able to do so? And are there any consequences according to Islamic law? These questions are important, not to judge, but to provide a comprehensive understanding of the act of sacrifice and its urgency in the life of a Muslim.
Sacrifice, Between Sunnah and Obligation
The majority of scholars from the Shafi’i, Maliki, and Hanbali schools of thought agree that the ruling on sacrifice is sunnah muakad, meaning a highly recommended act of worship that should not be abandoned by those who are able to perform it. This means that if someone does not perform sacrifice even though they are able to, they are not sinful, but they have missed out on a highly virtuous act.
However, scholars from the Hanafi school of thought argue that the ruling on sacrificing an animal is obligatory for those who have sufficient wealth, similar to the conditions for zakat. Therefore, in this view, neglecting to sacrifice an animal without a valid reason can result in sin.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever has the means but does not perform the sacrifice should not approach our place of prayer.” (Reported by Ahmad and Ibn Majah)
This hadith is one of the key bases for the importance of sacrifice for those who are able, although scholars differ in their interpretation of the level of obligation.
Read also: 5 Friends of the Prophet Who Are Rarely Discussed, But Whose Stories Are Inspiring
Who is Considered Capable?
A person is considered capable of performing qurban if, on the days of Eid al-Adha, they have excess wealth that exceeds their basic needs and those of their dependents during those days. This criterion does not require a person to be wealthy, but rather to have stable finances and no urgent debts.
Thus, a permanent employee, entrepreneur, or anyone with a steady income and not facing serious economic difficulties is considered capable. Failing to perform the sacrifice means missing out on:
- The opportunity to earn great rewards
- The example set by Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Muhammad SAW
- The moment of sharing with the less fortunate
- An expression of gratitude for the blessings of sustenance
Moreover, someone who is capable but refuses to sacrifice may fall into the attitude of stinginess (munkar), which is greatly despised in Islam.
“And whoever is stingy and feels self-sufficient (does not need anything), and denies the best (religion), We will make easy for him the way to hardship.” (QS. Al-Lail: 8–10)
Do Not Take the Sunnah Muakad Lightly
Sacrifice is not only an individual act of worship, but also a social act of worship. Through sacrifice, we help the poor and remote areas that rarely have access to adequate nutrition. This is a form of fair and impactful wealth distribution.
It is no wonder that the Prophet Muhammad emphasized this act of worship as part of the pillars of Islam and solidarity among the ummah. Although not absolutely obligatory, the sunnah muakad is a highly emphasized practice. In many cases, the Prophet Muhammad continued to perform it every year and never abandoned it.
If we are able but choose not to sacrifice, it may indicate a lack of devotion or a loss of social sensitivity. After all, Eid al-Adha is a time for purifying the heart, softening empathy, and remembering the blessings Allah has bestowed upon us. If you have been granted financial ease this year, do not delay in making your sacrifice. This is not merely about rewards or obligations, but also about who we are before Allah and our fellow humans.
Help our brothers and sisters who rarely eat meat, and uphold the teachings of Islam through the act of sacrifice. Channel your sacrifice through Dompet Dhuafa and bring blessings through obedience.
