What happens to qurban meat? Understanding its journey and meaningful distribution

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.