When discussing Eid al-Adha and the act of sacrifice, our minds often turn to the noble story of Prophet Ibrahim AS and his son, Prophet Ismail AS. However, the spirit of sacrifice does not end there. The companions of Prophet Muhammad SAW also became extraordinary examples in embodying the meaning of sacrifice, not only in ritual form but also socially and spiritually.
During the time of the Prophet, the companions viewed sacrifice not as a burden but as an opportunity. They embraced it with a spirit of sharing, even though many of them lived in poverty. Here are some inspiring stories about the sacrifices made by the companions.
1. Abu Talhah: Donating His Best Orchard
One of the most famous stories is that of Abu Talhah, may Allah be pleased with him. One day, after the revelation of the verse:
“You will never attain true righteousness until you spend from what you love.” (QS. Ali Imran: 92)
Abu Talhah immediately went to the Prophet and said that the most beloved possession he had was his garden named Bairuha. He wanted to donate it in the path of Allah. Although this was not a sacrifice in the sense of slaughtering an animal, Abu Talhah’s spirit of sacrifice truly reflected the core value of sacrifice: giving up something you love most for the sake of Allah.
This story shows that the value of sacrifice is not in its form, but in the degree of love and sincerity that is given.
2. Ali bin Abi Talib: Sacrifice Despite Illness
Ali bin Abi Talib RA was known as a brave and ascetic figure. In one account, it is said that he continued to perform sacrifice even though he was not in optimal physical condition at the time.
He wanted to show that as long as he was financially capable, he did not want to miss this act of worship that was so beloved to the Prophet Muhammad SAW.
For Ali, sacrifice was a tangible expression of his love for the Prophet and an example of living his sunnah.
3. Abdurrahman bin Auf: Rich, But Humble
This companion was known for his generosity. When Eid al-Adha arrived, Abdurrahman bin Auf RA did not only perform the sacrifice for himself but also slaughtered animals on behalf of his family and some needy people around him. He understood that the wealth he possessed was a trust, and through the sacrifice, he could channel it to bring happiness to many people.
He even once said, “I fear that I will be among those who are given the blessings of this world but forget to be grateful. Therefore, I have made it a habit to give, so that I will not be bound by this world.”
4. Bilal bin Rabah: Sacrifice in Simplicity
As a former slave who was freed and later became the first muezzin in Islam, Bilal lived a simple life. However, economic hardship did not prevent him from contributing during Eid al-Adha. In some accounts, it is said that Bilal collected funds with several other companions to perform qurbani together. This spirit of mutual cooperation shows that limitations are not a barrier to worship, as long as there is intention and effort.
5. Ummu Salamah: An example from women
Ummu Salamah RA, one of the wives of the Prophet SAW, also set an example of how women can play a role in the sacrifice ritual. In a hadith, she narrated that the Prophet SAW said:
“When the tenth day (of Dhu al-Hijjah) arrives, and any of you intends to sacrifice, let him not take a single hair or nail until he has sacrificed.” (HR. Muslim)
This hadith was narrated by Ummu Salamah herself, demonstrating her deep attention to the act of sacrifice. Although it is not explicitly stated that she performed the sacrifice herself, her role in transmitting the laws and etiquette of sacrifice has become an integral part of the Islamic tradition of sacrifice to this day.
Read also: Qurban, a Sunnah that Strengthens the Heart and Sharpens Compassion
Sacrifice Is Not About Ability, But Sincerity
The stories of these companions show that sacrifice is not merely about financial ability, but about sincerity of heart. Whether rich like Abdurrahman bin Auf, humble like Bilal, or sick like Ali bin Abi Thalib—all of them show that when the heart is moved by faith, sacrifice feels light.
Eid al-Adha is a moment to revive these values. Not everyone can afford to buy an animal themselves, but we can work together, pool our resources, or even help with the distribution of sacrifices. The spirit of the companions was a spirit of sharing and putting others first.
The spirit of sacrifice during the time of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions was not merely about the number of goats or cows, but about how much they loved Allah and His Messenger. It was about how they turned Eid al-Adha into a moment to strengthen faith, strengthen brotherhood, and expand the benefits.
Now, it is our turn to continue that spirit. Channel your sacrifice through Dompet Dhuafa and make your sacrifice a legacy of kindness that touches many hearts.
