7 meaningful ways Muslims can embrace modern-day sacrifices during Eid al-Adha
Muslims can embody the spirit of qurban in daily life by letting go of ego, material comforts, and personal desires in pursuit of spiritual growth and social responsibility. By DANIAL HAKIM
07 Jun 2025 11:00am
The spirit of Qurban and Aidiladha is about the willingness to give up on something that is 'valuable' for the sake of Allah and what is 'valuable' ultimately falls to one's own interpretation of the matter. Photo: Canva.
The meaning of Qurban has grown beyond the simple act of sacrifice, touching deeper parts of our faith and lives.The essence of qurban and Aidiladha lies in the willingness to part with what one holds most valuable for the sake of Allah SWT, recognising that 'value' is deeply personal and defined by each individual's heart and sacrifice.While Aidiladha is traditionally marked by the sacrifice of livestock to honour the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim, its essence goes far beyond ritual as today, Muslims can embody the spirit of qurban in daily life by letting go of ego, material comforts, and personal desires in pursuit of spiritual growth and social responsibility.UiTM Academy of Contemporary Islamic Studies (ACIS) senior lecturer Dr Aishah Mohd Nor, offers deep insights into how modern Muslims can live out the values of qurban beyond the slaughterhouse, through sacrifice of self, time, comfort, and even silence. According to Dr Aishah, personal sacrifices that reflect the spirit of qurban include letting go of one's ego, desires, and attachments to material comforts. Photo: Canva.
Letting go of material comforts Modern qurban can be as simple and as difficult as choosing compassion over convenience.According to Aishah, personal sacrifices that reflect the spirit of qurban include letting go of one's ego, desires, and attachments to material comforts.
This can include spending time caring for aging parents rather than pursuing leisure, or cutting down on unnecessary spending to channel funds to those in need. Like Prophet Ibrahim's immense willingness to sacrifice his beloved son, these acts reflect giving up what is "dear" for the sake of Allah.
Refusing unethical wealth Earning wealth ethically is a sacred responsibility that extends anytime and anywhere, even during Aidiladha.'Refusing unethical business opportunities for the sake of halal income is a powerful act of modern sacrifice,' Aisyah said.In a world where shortcuts and unethical gain are often glorified, choosing the halal path (though it may be slower or harder) reflects devotion to Allah and a conscious commitment to integrity.
Submission to selflessness According to Aisyah, the concept of qurban can be seen in the concept of submission to Allah and the willingness to be selfless.Today's youth are encouraged to make decisions not just for fame or fortune but with the intention to benefit the ummah.'Submission can be seen in how youth align their ambitions and decisions with Islamic values for example, choosing a career path not just for fame or fortune but also for benefit to the ummah,' she clarified.Whether it's choosing a socially impactful career or helping peers with studies out of pure kindness, these sacrifices reflect selflessness, one of the core values of Aidiladha. In light of the modern world witnessing the atrocities that are currently befalling innocent yet silenced muslims around the world, the truest sacrifice can be seen in giving up fear, comfort, or social approval to uphold what is right. Photo: Canva.
Taming the Ego 'Perhaps ego is also something to consider,' Aishah noted as she highlights a worrying trend among some youth who believe they are always right.'They often believe they are always right, and cannot be corrected, whatever relates to them is seen as true regardless whether they are right or wrong,' she said.Letting go of ego and accepting one's own flaws is an act that muslims now can consider a modern spiritual sacrifice akin to taming and slaughtering cattle during Aidiladha.As such, this also includes sacrificing one's ego in pursuing true verified knowledge, not just information trending on social media.'Modern qurban means sacrificing our time and effort to seek true knowledge, acknowledging our ego and striving to be better,' she added.
Reducing digital indulgence In today's hyperconnected world, giving up screen time is a real sacrifice.'In today's world, attention is the new currency,' Aishah quipped.Thus, reducing time spent on addictive digital habits in favour of salah, Qur'an recitation, or quality family moments is a form of modern qurban.Aishah noted that charity and sacrifice extends beyond money, it includes giving time, kind words, or emotional support.'In digital habits, it means resisting toxic content, avoiding online gossip or arrogance, and using platforms to spread positivity and knowledge.'In time management, it means prioritising salah, quran recitation, and family responsibilities, even if it means reducing personal screen time or gaming hours,' she added. Letting go of ego and accepting one's own flaws is an act that muslims now can consider a modern spiritual sacrifice akin to taming and slaughtering cattle during Aidiladha. Photo: Canva.
Standing for justice and truth One of the noblest forms of qurban today is speaking truth in the face of injustice.'To stand for justice means we cannot stay silent on issues like, for example, Palestine,' Aishah stated.In light of the modern world witnessing the atrocities that are currently befalling innocent yet silenced muslims around the world, the truest sacrifice can be seen in giving up fear, comfort, or social approval to uphold what is right.As Aishah mused, just as Prophet Ibrahim made an unimaginable sacrifice, we too are called to be brave to speak, to act, and to resist silence when it matters most.
Being present for others Volunteering, mentoring juniors, or helping without expecting anything in return may seem ordinary, but in the eyes of Allah, they are extraordinary.According to Aishah selflessness can be practiced by volunteering regularly during humanitarian crises, helping friends or siblings with their studies, or mentoring others without expecting anything in return.These acts, no matter how small, carry the spirit of qurban, choosing others over ourselves for Allah's sake.
Aidiladha is a reminder that sacrifice isn't just about blood and flesh. It's about sincere submission, humility, and giving up what we love most for a higher purpose. Whether it's wealth, ego, time, or silence, the deeper meaning of qurban lies in our willingness to choose Allah over ourselves.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sinar Daily
6 hours ago
- Sinar Daily
How this father's grief turned into a daily act of love
They say time heals all wounds, but for this father, love is what keeps the memory alive. Every day for the past 14 years, Abdul Muiz visits his late son's grave. A grieving father's love stretches far beyond what most can imagine. Nnot just in what he's willing to give, but also in what he's willing to lose. For 62-year-old Abdul Muiz Dzihni Abdul Aziz, that love has become a lifelong mission of remembrance for his late son, Abdul Jabbar, who passed away at just 18. From the moment he first held his newborn son, Muiz's heart was full. But his joy turned to heartbreak when Jabbar was diagnosed with terminal bone cancer at just 17. There were moments of hope as his son showed signs of recovery, but everything changed when Jabbar developed pneumonia. The infection proved too much for his already weakened body and ultimately claimed his life. Abdul Muiz with his firstborn, Abdul Jabbar (far right), during his younger years. For Muiz, the emotion that surfaced most was guilt, even though it was beyond his control and not anyone's fault. Yet, perhaps driven by that lingering guilt or more truly, by the undying, unconditional love of a father, Muiz has visited his son's grave every single day since Jabbar's passing in August 2010. What began as an act of remembrance has become a routine. During each 30- to 45-minute visit, Muiz makes it a point to complete at least one chapter of the Quran, turning his grief into devotion. An act of love anchored in religious devotion He wasn't spared a fair share of criticism from the community, as his daily visits were seen as an uncommon practice. Abdul Muiz visits this grave everyday. Despite the criticism, he sees it as encouragement — and a reminder to fellow Muslims to remember the dead, whether by visiting graves or praying from home. 'For me, there is almost no criticism, because most Muslims in the neighbourhood understand the reality of Alam Barzakh (the realm between life and the afterlife),' he said. 'All Muslims are aware of the virtues of the Quran, not just for those who are alive. What I am doing should serve as a reminder that those who have already passed away always benefit from our recitations and prayers,' he added. With Abdul Qahhar, the youngest son in the family. Fathers are not always seen as heroes. But for Muiz, who lives with quiet grief and steadfast faith, he is a hero in the truest sense of the word. Abdul Jabbar, third from right, with his friends at school. 'As a father, I feel like doing so is part of my responsibility,' he said. 'Every visit reminds me of death, and I often think that this might be my last visit,' he added. Muiz explained that Islam places great importance on reciting the Quran for the deceased, especially their children, and that visiting their graves is strongly encouraged, as it grants pahala (blessings) to both the living and the departed. So this Father's Day, hold your father close in your thoughts, your prayers, or your presence because love like Muiz's, lives far beyond loss. Happy Father's Day! More Like This
Sinar Daily
a day ago
- Sinar Daily
7 meaningful ways Muslims can embrace modern-day sacrifices during Eid al-Adha
Muslims can embody the spirit of qurban in daily life by letting go of ego, material comforts, and personal desires in pursuit of spiritual growth and social responsibility. By DANIAL HAKIM 07 Jun 2025 11:00am The spirit of Qurban and Aidiladha is about the willingness to give up on something that is 'valuable' for the sake of Allah and what is 'valuable' ultimately falls to one's own interpretation of the matter. Photo: Canva. The meaning of Qurban has grown beyond the simple act of sacrifice, touching deeper parts of our faith and essence of qurban and Aidiladha lies in the willingness to part with what one holds most valuable for the sake of Allah SWT, recognising that 'value' is deeply personal and defined by each individual's heart and Aidiladha is traditionally marked by the sacrifice of livestock to honour the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim, its essence goes far beyond ritual as today, Muslims can embody the spirit of qurban in daily life by letting go of ego, material comforts, and personal desires in pursuit of spiritual growth and social Academy of Contemporary Islamic Studies (ACIS) senior lecturer Dr Aishah Mohd Nor, offers deep insights into how modern Muslims can live out the values of qurban beyond the slaughterhouse, through sacrifice of self, time, comfort, and even silence. According to Dr Aishah, personal sacrifices that reflect the spirit of qurban include letting go of one's ego, desires, and attachments to material comforts. Photo: Canva. Letting go of material comforts Modern qurban can be as simple and as difficult as choosing compassion over to Aishah, personal sacrifices that reflect the spirit of qurban include letting go of one's ego, desires, and attachments to material comforts. This can include spending time caring for aging parents rather than pursuing leisure, or cutting down on unnecessary spending to channel funds to those in need. Like Prophet Ibrahim's immense willingness to sacrifice his beloved son, these acts reflect giving up what is "dear" for the sake of Allah. Refusing unethical wealth Earning wealth ethically is a sacred responsibility that extends anytime and anywhere, even during Aidiladha.'Refusing unethical business opportunities for the sake of halal income is a powerful act of modern sacrifice,' Aisyah a world where shortcuts and unethical gain are often glorified, choosing the halal path (though it may be slower or harder) reflects devotion to Allah and a conscious commitment to integrity. Submission to selflessness According to Aisyah, the concept of qurban can be seen in the concept of submission to Allah and the willingness to be youth are encouraged to make decisions not just for fame or fortune but with the intention to benefit the ummah.'Submission can be seen in how youth align their ambitions and decisions with Islamic values for example, choosing a career path not just for fame or fortune but also for benefit to the ummah,' she it's choosing a socially impactful career or helping peers with studies out of pure kindness, these sacrifices reflect selflessness, one of the core values of Aidiladha. In light of the modern world witnessing the atrocities that are currently befalling innocent yet silenced muslims around the world, the truest sacrifice can be seen in giving up fear, comfort, or social approval to uphold what is right. Photo: Canva. Taming the Ego 'Perhaps ego is also something to consider,' Aishah noted as she highlights a worrying trend among some youth who believe they are always right.'They often believe they are always right, and cannot be corrected, whatever relates to them is seen as true regardless whether they are right or wrong,' she go of ego and accepting one's own flaws is an act that muslims now can consider a modern spiritual sacrifice akin to taming and slaughtering cattle during such, this also includes sacrificing one's ego in pursuing true verified knowledge, not just information trending on social media.'Modern qurban means sacrificing our time and effort to seek true knowledge, acknowledging our ego and striving to be better,' she added. Reducing digital indulgence In today's hyperconnected world, giving up screen time is a real sacrifice.'In today's world, attention is the new currency,' Aishah reducing time spent on addictive digital habits in favour of salah, Qur'an recitation, or quality family moments is a form of modern noted that charity and sacrifice extends beyond money, it includes giving time, kind words, or emotional support.'In digital habits, it means resisting toxic content, avoiding online gossip or arrogance, and using platforms to spread positivity and knowledge.'In time management, it means prioritising salah, quran recitation, and family responsibilities, even if it means reducing personal screen time or gaming hours,' she added. Letting go of ego and accepting one's own flaws is an act that muslims now can consider a modern spiritual sacrifice akin to taming and slaughtering cattle during Aidiladha. Photo: Canva. Standing for justice and truth One of the noblest forms of qurban today is speaking truth in the face of injustice.'To stand for justice means we cannot stay silent on issues like, for example, Palestine,' Aishah light of the modern world witnessing the atrocities that are currently befalling innocent yet silenced muslims around the world, the truest sacrifice can be seen in giving up fear, comfort, or social approval to uphold what is Aishah mused, just as Prophet Ibrahim made an unimaginable sacrifice, we too are called to be brave to speak, to act, and to resist silence when it matters most. Being present for others Volunteering, mentoring juniors, or helping without expecting anything in return may seem ordinary, but in the eyes of Allah, they are to Aishah selflessness can be practiced by volunteering regularly during humanitarian crises, helping friends or siblings with their studies, or mentoring others without expecting anything in acts, no matter how small, carry the spirit of qurban, choosing others over ourselves for Allah's sake. Aidiladha is a reminder that sacrifice isn't just about blood and flesh. It's about sincere submission, humility, and giving up what we love most for a higher purpose. Whether it's wealth, ego, time, or silence, the deeper meaning of qurban lies in our willingness to choose Allah over ourselves.
Sinar Daily
a day ago
- Sinar Daily
Zakat meant to uplift, not sustain comfort: Asnaf encouraged to pursue self-reliance
THERE are a small number of asnaf (eligible zakat recipients) who seems to have grown too overly reliant on the monthy zakat assistance to the point of resisting any effort to break free from dependence on such aid. For some, the financial support is seen not as a temporary lifeline, but as a form of fixed income, a mindset that goes against the intended purpose of zakat, which is to offer short-term relief and help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity. Islamic preacher Mohamad Hadi Ahmad Talhah said zakat is part of an equitable and just Islamic economic system designed to assist those in genuine need. However, he stressed the importance of understanding zakat in its proper context. "If a person is physically healthy, still young and capable of working, then the assistance should only be temporary. "Perhaps for a few months or even a year or two, but certainly not for a lifetime," he told Sinar. Taking wealth wrongfully is a major sin Commenting on the attitude of some asnaf who remain in the "comfort zone", Hadi emphasised that zakat funds are not intended for people to live in luxury or complacency. Instead, zakat should serve as a stepping stone towards self-sufficiency, a means of improving one's life to the point where they no longer qualify as asnaf, he said. "The aid should help lift them out of poverty, especially those categorised as fakir (destitute) or miskin (needy). "If someone has secured stable employment, earns enough to meet basic needs, has been given business capital and is capable of generating their own income, they should no longer be considered asnaf," he said. Islamic preacher Mohamad Hadi Ahmad Talhah He expressed concern that some individuals knowingly continue to apply for and receive zakat despite no longer being eligible, a behaviour that he said constitutes a serious sin. "From a legal standpoint, if a person knows they no longer fall under any asnaf category but still takes zakat, it is considered haram (prohibited). "It is a major sin because it involves unlawfully taking wealth that is meant for others," he said. While acknowledging that some zakat bodies have introduced motivational programmes for asnaf, Hadi believes such initiatives should be strengthened. "I recommend regular motivational sessions be held at mosques in areas where the asnaf live, rather than only providing financial assistance. "We need to instill awareness and knowledge to encourage meaningful change," he said. He pointed to the Islamic golden era under Caliph Umar ibn Abdul Aziz, where zakat was distributed fairly and comprehensively, so effectively, in fact, that there was no one left who qualified to receive it. The honour of giving Hadi added that in Islam, those who give are held in higher regard than those who ask. As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said "The upper hand (the one that gives) is better than the lower hand (the one who asks)."(Narrated by al-Bukhari) This principle, he said, should be embraced by all Muslims, including current asnaf with the hope that one day they too can become zakat payers and benefit others. "Those who pay zakat are fulfilling one of the pillars of Islam. The reward is immense and it even expiates minor sins. "When we give zakat, our wealth is blessed and multiplied by Allah. Whatever we give will be returned to us and the benefits are felt both in this world and the hereafter," he said. Hadi expressed concern over the behaviour of some asnaf who are overly demanding or selective about the form of assistance they receive. This is especially troubling when to them, the aid provided only meets their essential needs, but not their personal preferences. "People should be grateful for what they receive," he added. Zakat, not just for the poor There are eight categories of asnaf eligible to receive zakat. Only two of these, fakir and miskin are defined by poverty. The other six categories are: slaves (riqab), zakat administrators (amil), new Muslims (muallaf), those in debt (gharimin), those striving in the cause of Allah (fisabilillah), and travellers in need (ibn sabil). The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said zakat should be taken from the wealthy and given to the poor, referring specifically to the fakir and miskin categories. Scholars such as Dr Abdullah Nashih Ulwan clarified that the prohibition on giving zakat to the wealthy only applies when funds are taken from the portion allocated to the poor. If funds come from other zakat categories, it is permissible to distribute them to individuals who are not poor, as long as they meet the criteria. Islam discourages a culture of dependency, especially among those who are physically capable and able to work. Wealthy individuals may still be eligible for zakat if they fall under one of five categories mentioned in the hadith: zakat administrators, new Muslims, those fighting in Allah's cause, those in debt, or wealthy individuals who are gifted zakat after redistribution. According to the Shafi'i and Hanbali schools of thought, such cases are permissible because the qualification is based on public interest (maslahah), not poverty.
