š Part of our Qurbani in Makkah: Complete Guide series.
"Qurbani" and "Sadaqah Zabiha" are two terms that get used almost interchangeably, but they actually refer to two distinct types of sacrifice with different timing, rulings, and intentions behind them. If you've ever wondered which one applies to your situation, this guide walks through the key differences.
What Is Qurbani?
Qurbani, also called Eid Zabiha or Udhiya, is the sacrifice offered specifically during the days of Eid al-Adha. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) in obedience to Allah, and Allah's mercy in replacing the sacrifice with a ram. According to the majority view, Qurbani is either obligatory (wajib) or a strongly emphasized Sunnah ā depending on the school of thought ā for those who meet the Nisab wealth threshold, and it must be performed within the specific days of Eid al-Adha.
What Is Sadaqah Zabiha?
Sadaqah Zabiha is a voluntary charitable sacrifice that can be given at any time of the year ā it isn't tied to Eid al-Adha or any specific date. It's an act of general charity, similar to giving money in Sadaqah, except the charity takes the form of an animal sacrifice, with the meat distributed to those in need. There's no obligation attached to it ā it's purely voluntary, given whenever someone wishes to perform an extra act of worship and charity.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Timing: Qurbani ā only during the days of Eid al-Adha. Sadaqah Zabiha ā any time of year.
- Ruling: Qurbani ā obligatory or strongly recommended, depending on school of thought and wealth. Sadaqah Zabiha ā entirely voluntary.
- Occasion: Qurbani ā tied specifically to Eid al-Adha and the story of Ibrahim (AS). Sadaqah Zabiha ā not tied to any occasion; can be given for any reason, including general charity or gratitude.
- Who it applies to: Qurbani ā primarily those above the Nisab threshold. Sadaqah Zabiha ā anyone who wishes to give, regardless of wealth threshold.
Can You Give Both?
Yes ā many people give their obligatory or recommended Qurbani during Eid al-Adha, and separately give Sadaqah Zabiha at other points during the year as an additional act of charity. There's no conflict between the two; they simply serve different purposes and follow different timing.
Why the Confusion Happens
Because both involve the same basic act ā sacrificing an animal and distributing the meat to those in need ā it's easy to assume they're the same thing under different names. The confusion is compounded by the fact that many services (including ours) offer both options side by side, using similar animals and processes. The distinction really comes down to timing and intention: Eid Zabiha/Qurbani specifically during Eid al-Adha with that specific intention, versus Sadaqah Zabiha as general, unrestricted charity.
Which Should You Choose?
If it's currently the days of Eid al-Adha and you meet the conditions for Qurbani (or simply wish to observe the Sunnah), select the Qurbani/Eid Zabiha option. If you want to give a charitable sacrifice at another time of year ā perhaps to mark a personal occasion, fulfil a vow, or simply as an extra act of worship ā Sadaqah Zabiha is the appropriate choice. Both are fulfilled the same way through MakkahZabiha: choose your animal, select the correct Zabiha type, and the sacrifice is performed and distributed on your behalf in Makkah.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sadaqah Zabiha a replacement for Qurbani?
No. If Qurbani is obligatory or recommended for you during Eid al-Adha, Sadaqah Zabiha given at another time does not fulfil that specific obligation ā they are separate acts.
Can I give Sadaqah Zabiha during Eid al-Adha as well as Qurbani?
Yes, there's no restriction against giving both ā your Eid Qurbani fulfils that specific occasion, and an additional Sadaqah Zabiha would simply be extra voluntary charity.
Does Sadaqah Zabiha have to use a specific animal?
The same eligible animals used for Qurbani ā Goat, Sheep, or Camel ā can also be used for Sadaqah Zabiha, following the same Shariah requirements for the animal's health and eligibility.
Is the meat distributed differently for Sadaqah Zabiha versus Qurbani?
No, in both cases the meat is distributed to those in need living in and around the Haram in Makkah, following the same process.
Can Sadaqah Zabiha be given on behalf of someone else?
Yes, since it's a voluntary act of charity, it can be given on behalf of a living or deceased family member, or anyone else you wish to include in the reward.
How do I select the right option when ordering?
When choosing your animal on our product pages, simply select the Zabiha type that matches your intention ā Eid Zabiha/Qurbani, Sadaqah Zabiha, or another category ā before completing your order.