Sharing happiness through Qurbani

Eid-ul-Adha is here. People are busy with planning to buy the sacrificing animal and how to distribute different portions of it. Anticipation fills the air as households prepare for this auspicious occasion.

From selecting the perfect animal to ensuring its well-being, the process is one of careful consideration. This occasion holds great spiritual and social significance, emphasising the community's values of sacrifice, compassion, and unity. One of the integral aspects of Qurbani is the distribution of meat among relatives, an age-old practice that symbolises sharing, solidarity, and fostering familial bonds.

Qurbani represents the act of sacrifice and devotion to God. It is a profound expression of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us and a reminder of our duty to share our abundance with others.

By sacrificing an animal, we emulate the act of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH), who displayed unwavering faith and obedience to Allah. The excellence of Qurbani lies not in selfish enjoyment but rather in the sharing of happiness with other people. 

The sharing of meat with loved ones, friends, and those who are less fortunate is one lovely feature of Qurbani. Social and humanitarian principles are deeply ingrained in this discipline. The act of sharing the meat encourages kindness, charity, and concern for others. It promotes a sense of community unity and enables us to share our blessings and delight with those we care about. It also acts as a way to assist those in need, making sure that everyone can benefit from the celebration's blessings.

While many find it beautiful to create happy moments by sharing the meat of sacrificed animals with relatives, some people find this practice outdated and unnecessary. Especially many individuals of this generation find it uncomfortable and struggle to connect with this tradition. They perceive it as a burden or a chore rather than an opportunity to bond and express gratitude. Some even make fun of this wonderful act.

In today's fast-paced world, where time spent with family often takes a backseat, the tradition of sharing qurbani meat has become even more significant. It allows families to come together, strengthen their bonds, and reinforce the importance of kinship. Gathering around a meal made from the blessed sacrifice deepens the family's sense of belonging and love. It fosters a sense of unity, where relatives share the occasion's joy and connect on a deeper level. Sharing qurbani meat has become a cherished tradition that brings families closer and strengthens the fabric of society.

"I believe there is no particular generation for any good deeds. Some people may think sharing meat with relatives during Eid is old-fashioned and unnecessary. But it's more than just a tradition. It's about showing kindness, bringing people together, and putting others before ourselves," Bashir Siddiqi, a local businessman, shared his thoughts on this issue.

"When we share meat, we strengthen our family bonds, connect with our community, and remember that we all are responsible for caring for one another. By keeping our customs alive, we keep alive the values that shape us as individuals and as a society," he added.

The spiritual transformation that Qurbani brings about is just as important as the physical sacrifice that it involves. It helps us clear our minds, bolster our faith, and remind us of the value of selflessness and empathy. While it is normal for each generation to have its own viewpoints, preserving and upholding the customs and cultural values that have defined our identities is crucial.

Mocking or making fun of the practice of sharing Qurbani meat not only undermines the occasion's significance but also disrespects others' beliefs and sentiments. It is important to approach cultural practices with an open mind, recognising their profound meaning and purpose.

Qurbani, as a religious and social ritual, is extremely important in the lives of Muslims. It is a time for self-reflection, thanksgiving, and fellowship. Sharing qurbani meat with relatives is a great way to exhibit kindness, strengthen family relationships, and embrace compassion and empathy.

It's time we recall the core of Qurbani and approach it with care and appreciation as we participate in this sacred rite. May this noble occasion enhance our bonds with our loved ones and remind us of the value of selflessness.

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