Below are six ways that we can ensure our actual Qurbani is done with Taqwa:
1. Protect the gaze: In Qurbani, it is Makrooh for us to allow one animal to see another animal getting slaughtered. Many people are cautious of this, ensuring that the animals are kept separate. Yet we allow our inner ‘animal’ (i.e. Nafs) to see our sister in laws, the neighbour’s daughter and other strange women. If we allow a sheep to see another sheep which is being slaughtered, it is Makrooh, but if we look at another strange woman it is Haraam. The sheep will not get a sin but we will, so be careful in this regard. Protect the gaze at all times especially during this Auspicious Day.
2. Backbiting: This is common on Eid Day. People backbite about the way someone does Qurbani. Remember, we all have our own techniques. It is fine to disagree on a matter, but there is no need to overstep the line and backbite.
3. Boasting and drawing comparisons: People boast about how much they spend on their Qurbani animal, comparing it with others. Your wealth does not reach Allah, so why boast? Furthermore, wealth is merely a gift from Allah and He will give and take as He pleases. So what is there to boast about?
4. Photography and videoing: Stern warnings have been sounded in the Adaahith pertaining to photography (of animated objects). Thus, to be involved in the sin and curse of photography and videoing of animals etc. on Eid Day is undoubtedly lamentable. Allah has allowed for us to take the life of an animal to fulfil our Waajib Qurbani and to earn reward in the process. Why do we turn it into a movie, making videos and sharing it on Facebook, boasting about our knives and slaughtering techniques? Think about it, ask yourself the reason as to why you are recording. It is done to show off and showing off reduces our hard earned rewards.
5. Salaah: Many people miss Salah on Eid day. Some present the excuse that blood fell on their clothing, making it dirty. Thus we were unable to attend Jamaat. However, we know that our clothes will get dirty in the process. Brother, what else were you expecting, a bunch of flowers? Obviously, when you slaughter blood will be all over the place. Therefore, carry a clean set of clothing, change and then attend the Masjid. Do not miss Salaah! That excuse is not valid in the sight of Allah!
6. Anger: Many people fall prey to anger and even become vulgar while carrying out their Qurbani, thus reducing their reward and adding to sin. We should be wary not to fall prey to anger.
May Allah enable us to act with Taqwa and may He accept our sacrifices as a result of it, Aameen.
Remember, Allah Ta’ala announces in His Glorious Kalaam:
“It is not the flesh, nor the blood which reaches Allah, but it is your Taqwa that reaches Him.”