In Islam, Aqiqah is the sacrifice of livestock; such as goats and sheep, at the birth of a child. The Aqiqah is performed as part of the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It often takes place on the seventh day after a baby’s birth. However, there’s nothing wrong with doing it at a later time.
The sacrifice is then often divided between the family members who are carrying out the sacrifice. It’s often handed out to the poor and needy.
Aqiqah is a form of celebration, and is a means of showing gratitude to Allah for the blessing of a new baby.
The Prophet (SAW) said:
“A boy is in pledge for his Aqiqah, Sacrifice is made for him on the seventh day, his head is shaved and he is given name.”
[Abu Dawud]
Millions of people struggle everyday with poverty, with many people going days and months without proper food. Your donation could provide a family with a meal and give them the vital nutrients they need. They would also have the chance to share in the celebration of new life. The reward of this beloved Sunnah benefits so many of us.
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) provided an Aqiqah to each of his two grandsons, Imam Hassan and Hussain (May Allah be pleased with them all)
An Aqiqah usually takes place on the seventh day after a baby’s birth. However, there’s nothing wrong with doing it at a later time.
The sacrifice is usually carried out by an adult male according to normal Sharia (halal) guidelines regarding meat. The animal(s) must be healthy, meet the requirements for minimal age for slaughter and not be slaughtered in sight of other animals.
For a baby boy, two animals are sacrificed. For a baby girl, one animal is sacrificed.
The sacrifice is then divided between the family members who are carrying out the sacrifice. It’s then handed out to the poor and needy. For family and friends, a gathering is often arranged to celebrate and share the meat.
Aqiqah is a highly recommended Sunnah, but if you would like to take part in this voluntary act of sacrifice, there are a few rules and guidelines you should follow:
The Aqiqah is often carried out first and then accompanied by a social gathering with family and friends, where a section of the meat is shared as a meal.
The new born baby’s father usually pays for it. However, another relative can pay for the Aqiqah if the father is not able to, or if he gives permission to do so.
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) offered Aqiqah on behalf of his beloved grandsons Imam Hassan and Hussain (May Allah be pleased with them all)
Every sane adult who is eligible to pay Zakat, should offer Aqiqah at the birth of a new baby.
The Aqiqah meat from a sacrificed goat is divided into three parts according to the sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW):
Many Muslims cook the share of the Aqiqah meat for family and friends and hold a celebration to eat together, shave the baby’s head and announce the name of the child. It’s a wonderful occasion to welcome the baby into the world, according to the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Muslims perform Aqiqah because it is a Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), and every sane adult Muslim and is able financially should offer Aqiqah.
Narrated ‘Amr bin Shu’aib:
from his father, from his grandfather that the Prophet (SAW) ordered naming the child on the seventh day, removing the harm from him, and Al-‘Aqq (removing the hair and slaughtering the animal for ‘Aqiqah).
[Tirmidhi]
Aqiqah is a beloved act of worship. In Islam, we are encouraged to remember Allah in all situations – in both happy and difficult times, and to remember that everything in our lives is given by Him.
Aqiqah is also one of the rights that a newborn baby has upon his parents alongside being given a name of a good meaning.
Aqiqah is a means of expressing happiness and gratitude to Allah for the blessing of a new baby. It’s also an important reminder to remember those in need when celebrating our blessings, and to unite friends and family members.
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