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How to Perform Aqiqah Properly: Animals, Method, Distribution, and Sunnah
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How to Perform Aqiqah Properly: Animals, Method, Distribution, and Sunnah

Learn how to perform Aqiqah correctly, including animals, method, and distribution, ensuring this Sunnah is fulfilled with sincerity, confidence, and adherence to Islamic guidance.

Aqiqah is a simple act in practice but carries deep meaning and reward when performed correctly. Understanding how Aqiqah is carried out ensures that parents fulfil this Sunnah with confidence, sincerity, and respect for Islamic guidance. While flexibility is built into the practice, certain principles must be observed for the Aqiqah to be valid and meaningful.

بِسْمِ ٱللَّهِ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ

“The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed that sprouts into seven ears, each bearing one hundred grains.”

Choosing a valid animal for Aqiqah

The animals permitted for Aqiqah are the same as those allowed for Qurbani. These include sheep, goats, and shares in larger livestock such as cattle or camels. The animal selected must meet minimum age requirements and be free from serious defects.

Islam places strong emphasis on animal welfare. An animal that is clearly sick, severely underweight, blind, or physically impaired in a way that affects its well-being is not suitable for sacrifice. Choosing a healthy animal reflects sincerity and respect for the act of worship.

Making the intention for Aqiqah

As with all acts of worship, intention is central to Aqiqah. The intention should be made clear that the sacrifice is being offered as Aqiqah on behalf of the child. This intention does not need to be spoken aloud, but it must be present in the heart at the time of sacrifice.

If the Aqiqah is being performed by someone else on the parents’ behalf, the intention should still be made by the parents, and the person carrying out the sacrifice should be informed that it is for Aqiqah.

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The method of sacrifice

The sacrifice itself must be carried out in a halal manner. The name of Allah should be mentioned at the time of slaughter, and the animal should be treated with care and compassion. A sharp blade should be used to minimise suffering, and the animal should not witness the slaughter of another animal.

These guidelines are not merely technical requirements; they reflect Islam’s emphasis on mercy and dignity, even in acts involving sacrifice.

Timing of the Aqiqah sacrifice

While Aqiqah is recommended on the seventh day after birth, the sacrifice may be performed at any later time if needed. There is no expiry on its validity. What matters is that the act is carried out with sincerity and in accordance with Islamic principles.

Parents should not feel pressured to rush the process. Aqiqah performed later, with peace of mind, is preferable to one performed hastily under strain.

Shaving the baby’s hair and charity

It is Sunnah to shave the baby’s head on the day of Aqiqah. This practice symbolises cleanliness and renewal. Alongside this, parents are encouraged to give a charity equivalent to the weight of the baby’s hair in silver.

This charitable act reinforces the broader purpose of Aqiqah: beginning a child’s life with generosity and care for others.

Distribution of Aqiqah meat

Once the sacrifice is completed, the meat should be distributed generously. Traditionally, it may be divided into portions for the family, relatives or neighbours, and the poor. However, this division is not obligatory.

Many families choose to give most or all of the meat to those in need, especially when Aqiqah is performed on their behalf. What matters most is that the meat reaches others and that the act serves its charitable purpose.

Delegating Aqiqah to others

It is entirely permissible to appoint another person or organisation to perform Aqiqah on your behalf. This is particularly common among families without access to livestock or suitable facilities.

Delegating the act does not reduce its reward, provided the sacrifice is carried out correctly and with the proper intention.

Aqiqah as an act of balance

Aqiqah demonstrates how Islam balances worship with ease. It encourages gratitude and charity without imposing rigidity. When performed with understanding and sincerity, it becomes a source of blessing rather than a burden.

FAQs:

  • How is Aqiqah performed correctly?
    Aqiqah is performed by sacrificing a halal animal with the intention made on behalf of the child. The animal must meet Islamic requirements for health and age, the name of Allah should be mentioned at slaughter, and the meat should be distributed generously, particularly to those in need.
  • Can someone else perform Aqiqah on my behalf?
    Yes, Aqiqah can be delegated to another person or organisation. This is common when parents cannot perform the sacrifice themselves. As long as the intention is made for the child and the sacrifice follows Islamic guidelines, the Aqiqah remains valid and rewarded.
  • Does Aqiqah require shaving the baby’s hair?
    Shaving the baby’s hair is a recommended Sunnah, not an obligation. It is traditionally done on the seventh day and symbolises cleanliness and renewal. Parents are also encouraged to give charity equivalent to the hair’s weight in silver, though this too is recommended rather than compulsory.
  • Is it necessary to eat from the Aqiqah meat?
    No, it is not necessary for the family to eat from the Aqiqah meat. While they may keep some if they wish, many families choose to donate all of the meat to the poor. Both approaches are valid, as the primary purpose is charity and gratitude.
  • Can Aqiqah be done without a ceremony?
    Yes, Aqiqah does not require a formal gathering or ceremony. The core elements are the sacrifice, intention, and charity. Any additional celebration or gathering is optional and cultural, not a religious requirement.
  • What makes an Aqiqah invalid?
    An Aqiqah may be invalid if the animal does not meet Islamic requirements, if the intention is missing, or if the sacrifice is not performed in a halal manner. Ensuring the correct method and sincere intention is key to fulfilling the Sunnah properly.

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