Latest news with #Qurban
Shafaq News
3 days ago
- Shafaq News
Qurban cult tied to suicide in Nasiriyah
Shafaq News - Dhi Qar A man in his 30s hanged himself inside his home in central Nasiriyah, on Friday, according to a security source. Preliminary investigations link the suicide to the outlawed 'Qurban' cult, whose members promote extremist beliefs and rituals, including self-sacrifice. Authorities say the group, also known as the 'Al-Allahiya' cult, falsely deifies Imam Ali, the first Imam in Shia Islam, and conducts name-drawings to select individuals for sacrifice. Multiple suicides across southern Iraq have been tied to its practices. Iraqi security forces have arrested dozens of members in Wasit, Basra, Muthanna, and Diwaniyah. The cult is banned under Iraqi law for promoting extremist ideology and inciting self-harm.
Sinar Daily
17-06-2025
- General
- Sinar Daily
What happens to qurban meat? Understanding its journey and meaningful distribution
Qurban isn't just about sacrifice. It's about distribution. The journey of Qurban meat is perhaps the most beautiful part of the ritual, a chain of giving that reflects Islam's deep concern for equity and care for the poor. Photo by Canva FROM choosing the right animal to making sure the meat reaches the right hands, Qurban isn't just about sacrifice. It's about distribution and fulfilling an amanah (trust) that extends far beyond the slaughter site. Federal Territories Mufti, Sahibus Samahah Datuk Prof Madya Dr Luqman Abdullah, shared a clear guide on the right way to perform qurban, and the responsibilities that come after, the respectful handling of the meat, the fair distribution, and the deeper intention behind every step. The first lesson is clear: not every animal qualifies as a qurban offering. Only certain livestock are eligible such as camels, cows, buffaloes, goats, and sheep. Wild animals like deer or wild buffaloes are not allowed. Both males and females can be offered, whether they're fertile or castrated. But the eligibility doesn't stop at type, it goes deeper. The Mufti reminds us that animals must be healthy, well-fed, and free from any physical defects. That means no limping, no blindness, no broken horns, and certainly no signs of emaciation. There are even age guidelines: Camel: At least 5 years old Cow or Buffalo: At least 2 years old Goat: At least 2 years old Sheep: At least 1 year old or must have shed its front teeth This ensures the animal is mature enough, physically and symbolically for the sacred act of sacrifice. The Act of Slaughter: A Test of Skill, Faith, and Compassion Contrary to popular belief, the act of slaughter isn't just a physical ritual, it's a spiritual responsibility. 'Before the blade even touches the skin. Intention (niat) must be made,' said the Mufti. Whether it's a sunnah qurban or one that was nazar (vowed), the slaughterer must be a sane, practising Muslim, armed not just with a sharp knife but also deep understanding and respect. From choosing the right animal to making sure the meat reaches the right hands, Qurban isn't just about sacrifice. It's about distribution and fulfilling an amanah (trust) that extends far beyond the slaughter site. Photo: Canva Here's how the act unfolds: The animal is laid gently on its left side, facing the qiblah. It is restrained but never harmed, using proper tools. The slaughterer recites 'Bismillah Allahuakbar' and sends blessings upon the Prophet SAW. The knife is then swiftly drawn across the neck, cutting the trachea, oesophagus, and both major arteries. And in the quiet that follows, the du'a is whispered: 'Allahumma inna hadza minka wa laka fataqabbal minni' ('O Allah, indeed this is from You and for You, so accept it from me.') The emphasis here is on speed, mercy, and precision so the animal does not suffer, and the act remains dignified. What Happens to the Qurban Meat After the Slaughter? If you've ever wondered where Qurban meat goes after the sacrifice, you're not alone. The journey of Qurban meat is perhaps the most beautiful part of the ritual, a chain of giving that reflects Islam's deep concern for equity and care for the poor. But here's a key distinction: not all Qurban meat is treated the same. If one cow is shared among seven people, some performing wajib (obligatory) qurban, others doing sunnah qurban or even aqiqah, it becomes vital to separate the shares according to their intention. Why? Because: Wajib Qurban meat must be fully distributed to the needy Sunnah Qurban allows the owner to consume a portion Aqiqah meat has its own separate rulings Don't Sell the Skin (or Any Part of It) There are strict boundaries around what can be done with qurban parts, especially when it comes to payment. As explained by classical scholar Sheikh Zakaria al-Ansari, it is haram to sell any part of the qurban animal including the skin, horns, or even giving them as payment to the butcher. Instead, the owner may keep the hide for personal use or gift it to someone who can benefit from it, while any parts of the animal that are unusable should be respectfully buried. When done correctly, Qurban is more than just a ritual. It's a lesson in sacrifice, discipline, compassion, and community. It reminds us that faith isn't just about prayers or fasting, it's about how we care for others, especially those with less. So this Eid al-Adha, when the blade meets flesh and the takbir fills the sky, remember: the qurban is not just what you give up—but what you give forward.
Sinar Daily
13-06-2025
- General
- 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.
Malay Mail
08-06-2025
- Politics
- Malay Mail
Immigration Department denies issuing viral statement on Korban meat distribution
KUALA LUMPUR, June 7 — The Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM) has denied issuing any statement regarding guidelines for the distribution of 'Qurban' (sacrificial) meat at mosques in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidiladha celebration. JIM Deputy Director-General (Management) Ismail Mokhtar said the department was aware of the statement, dated June 5, 2025, that had gone viral. 'For the record, the statement is false and has never been issued by JIM,' he said in a statement here today. He also advised the public to always refer to the department's official channels for accurate and authentic information. 'JIM takes the dissemination of false information seriously, especially when it can lead to public confusion. Any unauthorised use of the department's official emblem and name is an offence and may be subject to legal action,' he added. The fake statement, dated June 5, 2025, that went viral, used the name of Immigration Director-General Datuk Zakaria Shaaban. Among the things claimed in the statement was that only foreign nationals with valid work permits and visas, or those with United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) cards, were allowed to receive Qurban meat at mosques. It also said that illegal immigrants who collected the meat would face immediate action. — Bernama
Sinar Daily
07-06-2025
- General
- Sinar Daily
Qurban, a beautiful reminder to give from the heart and reflect on what truly matters
EVERY year, as Muslims across the world celebrate Eid al-Adha, the air fills with the sounds of prayers, the scent of sacrificial meat, and a growing sense of tradition. But behind the bustle of buying cattle and coordinating distribution lies something far deeper, a timeless message of sacrifice, humility, and shared humanity. It's easy to get caught up in the logistics: How much for one portion? Goat or cow? Local or overseas? Yet, as Islamic law expert Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Izhar Ariff Mohd Kashim reminds, the core of qurban is not about ritual alone, it's about intent. 'It is also the sunnah of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). We must constantly remind our families that when we offer a portion of a goat or cow, it is to draw ourselves closer to Allah,' he says. 'While the adat (custom) may follow second, the priority is to recognise it as a sunnah. The family tradition of never missing Qurban is noble, but what's more important is to remember that it originates from the sunnah.' A REFLECTION For many, the act of sacrificing an animal feels like a ceremonial duty, a yearly checkbox. But Izhar points to something more powerful: empathy. 'This annual practice should remind and encourage us to constantly engage in self-reflection and humility. From Qurban, we are taught gratitude, to recognise that what we have is already the best, especially compared to others who might only eat meat once a year during this occasion," he said. For those who feast without thinking, it's a sobering reminder: meat, which many enjoy regularly, remains a rare luxury for others. Qurban is a moment to pause, give thanks, and give back. A TEST OF EGO AND SINCERITY He also highlighted a growing concern, which is performative piety. In an age where social media announcements and donation receipts can be flaunted like badges of honour, even acts of worship risk being reduced to status symbols. 'This act of worship reminds us that everything we do should be solely for the sake of gaining Allah's approval. "Qurban should be devoid of the intention to impress others, such as boasting that we've sacrificed a whole cow or five animals in our name, which does happen in some cases. "By reminding ourselves that our actions must never be for people, but for Allah, we help ourselves avoid this," he said. That sense of humility, he says, is central to the entire tradition. And it's a humility that should extend beyond individuals, even to the way the community collectively performs and manages the practice. GO BIG, GIVE BEST There's also the issue of quality. According to Izhar, choosing the weakest or cheapest animal just to 'tick the box" misses the point entirely. 'Islam teaches us that when we give food to others, we must offer the best. The same applies when spending in the way of Allah and giving in charity. Don't go for the cheapest or lowest quality animals just to save costs,' he said. And while it's become increasingly popular to outsource qurban to other countries due to cost, he cautions that there is virtue in thinking local first. 'The poor we distribute to should be Muslims within Malaysia. "Making our local friends, neighbours, and community members happy takes precedence over sending food abroad, where others have their own governments and wealth. "Prioritise the needy around us such as our village, our town, our state, and neighbouring states. Eventually, the whole country benefits. 'There are poor people here too. Our goal is to bring joy to those in need, not to save money. This perception needs to be corrected so that we are confident our ibadah will be accepted by Allah," he said. WHEN CONVENIENCE MEETS CONVICTION In today's digital-first world, online qurban services have become increasingly convenient. Click a few buttons and a sacrifice is performed in your name. But is ease coming at the cost of awareness? 'The system of purchasing qurban meat and animal selection online is one of today's conveniences, using modern technology for buying and financial transactions,' Izhar acknowledged. But he stressed that true engagement requires more than a digital footprint. 'The sacrifice and distribution must be tangible, you can't rely on the digital realm because you don't know whether the meat will truly reach the intended recipient. "We must ensure the meat is delivered to the rightful recipients: the poor, the neighbours, the family and only lastly, for ourselves," he said. This entire process must be observed physically and with full awareness of the religious rulings on qurban meat distribution. DISTRIBUTE WITH DIGNITY Even the way we distribute meat matters. Izhar cautions against practices that prioritise the privileged, giving the best cuts to the wealthy while handing off leftovers to the needy. 'That is not right. This practice teaches justice, patience, and empathy,' he said. 'It educates us about effective and ethical management (husnul tadbir) in religious obligations. It trains both our spiritual and physical selves to become better people and responsible stewards (khalifah) in realising the purpose of Qurban in the best possible way.'
