Qurbani FAQ — terminology, obligation, and eligible animals

Answer

**Q: What is the difference between Udhiyyah and Qurbani?** A: 'Udhiyyah' is Arabic for sacrificing an animal; 'Qurbani' is an Urdu/Persian word from 'Qurban' (an act performed to seek Allah's pleasure). Both refer to sacrificing an animal at Eidul Adha.

**Q: Upon whom is Qurbani wajib?** A: Every Muslim who is of sound mind and mature, a non-traveller, and possesses the nisaab amount (after deducting basic necessities and debts) on any of the three days of Qurbani (10th–12th Zul-Hijjah). Unlike zakaat, it need not be held for a full lunar year.

**Q: What animals can be slaughtered for Qurbani?** A: Male or female goats, sheep, cattle, domestic buffalos, or camels.

**Q: What is the minimum age of a Qurbani animal?** A: A one-year-old goat or sheep; a two-year-old cow, bull, or buffalo; a five-year-old camel. Younger animals are not permissible, except a sheep older than 6 months resembling the size of a one-year-old.