Explanation of the Law of Sacrifice during Idul Adha in Islam

Kapanlagi.com - Idul Adha is always a meaningful moment for Muslims, where one of the main acts of worship is the slaughtering of sacrificial animals. However, amidst the joy, many still wonder: Is the sacrifice obligatory or merely sunnah?

This difference of opinion is not merely a debate, but part of the richness of knowledge in Islam. Scholars from various schools of thought have diverse viewpoints, depending on the evidence they refer to. Interestingly, there are also schools that allow a person to go into debt to perform the act of sacrifice.

Therefore, it is very important for us to clearly understand the legal basis surrounding sacrifice. In this article, you will be invited to explore in depth the laws, conditions, and virtues of sacrificing. The explanations presented have been summarized from various trusted sources, so you can be more confident in performing the act of sacrifice.

1. The Quranic Evidence that Forms the Legal Basis for Sacrifice

The establishment of the law of sacrifice in Islam cannot be separated from the verses of the Quran. One of the most frequently cited verses as a foundation is Surah Al-Kautsar verse 2: “Therefore, perform prayer for your Lord and sacrifice (an animal)! ” (QS. Al-Kautsar: 2). This verse serves as the basis that performing a sacrifice is a command directly related to servitude to Allah.

Through this verse, most scholars such as Imam Malik and Imam Al-Shafi'i conclude that the law of sacrifice is sunnah muakkadah or highly recommended. This means that a person who is able is strongly encouraged to perform a sacrifice, but it is not a sin if they do not.

However, there is also an affirmation from QS. Al-Maidah: 27 which states that sacrifices are only accepted from the righteous: “Indeed, Allah only accepts (sacrifices) from those who are righteous.” This indicates that intention and piety are the main conditions for the acceptance of this act of worship.

Meanwhile, from the social dimension, QS. Al-Hajj verse 28 mentions: “So eat from them and feed the miserable and the poor.” This underscores that sacrifice is not only a vertical act of worship to Allah, but also a form of horizontal concern for others.

2. Differences of Opinion Among Scholars: Mandatory or Sunnah?

The difference of opinion regarding the law of sacrifice arises among the major fiqh schools. The majority of scholars from the Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali schools believe that the sacrifice is a sunnah muakkadah. They refer to the practice of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, who consistently performed the sacrifice every year without making it an absolute obligation for his followers.

"There is no deed performed by the children of Adam on the Day of Eid al-Adha that is more beloved to Allah than the slaughtering of animals," said the Messenger of Allah in a hadith narrated by al-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah.

However, Abu Hanifah from the Hanafi school holds a different view. He states that sacrifice is mandatory for Muslims who are capable and not traveling. There is even a hadith that serves as a basis: "Whoever has the ability to perform the sacrifice but does not do so, let him not approach our place of prayer." (HR Ahmad and Ibn Majah).

However, hadith experts have weakened this hadith and consider that the statement indicates a strong recommendation, not an absolute obligation. The majority of scholars remain on the position of sunnah muakkadah for those who are able.

3. Requirements for Sacrifice

There are several requirements that must be met to perform the sacrifice worship, including:

• Financial capability: Only for those who are economically capable after fulfilling basic needs and other obligations.
• Appropriate sacrificial animal: The animal to be slaughtered must meet health, age, and type requirements, such as goats, sheep, cows, or camels. The minimum age of the animal is also specified, for example, at least one year for goats and sheep, and at least two years for cows.
• Sincere intention: The intention to sacrifice must be for Allah SWT.
• Correct slaughtering: Slaughtering must be done in accordance with Islamic law, ideally by a knowledgeable and trained person.
• Time of implementation: Sacrifice is performed on the 10th of Dzulhijjah (the day of Idul Adha) and the three days of Tashriq (11, 12, and 13 Dzulhijjah).

By fulfilling these requirements, the sacrifice worship can be performed properly and in accordance with the applicable regulations.

4. The Virtues of Sacrifice

Offering a sacrifice also has various virtues, including:

• Receiving great rewards.
• Cleansing sins.
• Becoming a symbol of sacrifice and obedience.
• Helping the poor and those in need.
• Increasing social awareness.

The Eid al-Adha holiday, also known as 'Hajj Day', takes place alongside the pilgrimage. This is a very important time for Muslims, where the slaughtering of sacrificial animals becomes one of the core elements of this celebration.

5. FAQ

What is the law of sacrifice for Muslims?

The law of sacrifice for Muslims is a sunnah muakkadah, which is highly recommended for those who are financially capable.

Who is obligated to sacrifice?

Only Muslims who are economically capable after fulfilling their basic needs and other obligations are encouraged to sacrifice.

When is the time for sacrifice?

The slaughtering of sacrificial animals is done on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah and the three days of Tashreeq (11, 12, and 13 of Dhu al-Hijjah).

Are there specific requirements for sacrificial animals?

Yes, sacrificial animals must meet health, age, and type requirements, and must be slaughtered according to Islamic law.

(kpl/rmt)