Author: Nadya Labiba

Make the most of the End of Financial Year (EOFY) 2025-26

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By donating to Islamic Relief Australia, you are helping us create a world that is free from poverty and injustice – one where communities are empowered and people are able to fulfil their God-given purpose. With you on board, we believe we can end suffering.

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How much would you like to give per month? Allah (SWT) loves deeds that are done consistently, even if they are small. Beyond Ramadan, continue to empower our Ummah. Help us provide those in need with critical support and relief.

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Why give more before the end of financial year (EOFY)? Because it makes a big impact, on our lives and for those most in need.  

EOFY donations help reduce your tax while supporting the world’s most vulnerable people. Through giving, you help teams on the ground deliver emergency responses to devastated communities and fight the inequality that fuels poverty and injustice.  

That’s what makes EOFY a moment to pause, reflect and give with purpose. Donating to a registered charity, like Islamic Relief Australia, may make your gift tax-deductible (meaning you’ll save on your next tax return). But more importantly, it helps create lasting change for the people who need it most.

What are EOFY donations? 

EOFY donations are charitable donations made before midnight at the end of June that can be claimed as a deduction when filing your tax return. In Australia, eligible donations include any amount given equaling $2 or more to a registered charity with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status, such as Islamic Relief Australia.  

To qualify, your donation must: 

• Be made before 11:59 pm AEST on 30 June 
• Be to an organisation with DGR status (like most registered charities) 
• Be a true gift, not a contribution (you don’t receive anything in return) 
• Have a receipt or proof of the donation 

How EOFY donations can help with taxes 

EOFY donations won’t give you an instant refund, but they can reduce how much tax you pay.  

When you lodge your tax return, you can claim any eligible donations made during the financial year. These donations lower your taxable income, allowing you to pay tax as if you earn a smaller amount. 

For example, if you earn $80,000 annually and you donate $1,000 to a DGR-endorsed charity, you may only be taxed as if your income is $79,000. 

The actual benefit depends on your income and marginal tax rate, but the principle is simple: the more you give (within your means), the less tax you may owe. 

EOFY giving is one way you can choose where some of your money goes. Instead of paying more tax, you can support a cause you believe in, creating a fairer future for us all. 

How to make an EOFY tax donation (step-by-step) 

Making an EOFY donation doesn’t have to be complicated: it can take just five simple steps. 

Your EOFY Giving Checklist 

• Choose a registered charity with DGR status 
• Donate $2 or more 
• Give before 30 June 
• Keep your receipt 
• Claim it in your tax return 

Why give with Islamic Relief Australia? 

EOFY is a great time to give, but how do you know your donation will really do good? There are three reasons why you can maximise you donation when giving with Islamic Relief. 

Islamic Relief Australia has DGR status 

To claim a tax deduction, your donation must go to a Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR). Islamic Relief Australia has this status, which you can check using the ABN Lookup. 

Transparency and impact are at the core of Islamic Relief 

You can find on our website showing our donors how their donations are used, what we’ve achieved, and where we’re heading. These include annual reports, impact updates, and real-life stories from the people we’ve helped.   

Islamic Relief Australia is also a member of ACFID, meaning we’re part of a voluntary code committed to transparency, effectiveness and ethical development practices. Because our teams are focused on delivering real impact, responsibly. 

We implement aid and programs that aligns with your values 

The best donations are the ones that feel meaningful to you. Whether you care about climate justice, refugee rights, or humanitarian aid, there is cause Islamic Relief Australian can implement that matters to you. Together, we can build the kind of world you want to live in. 

Where to donate this EOFY 

If you’re looking for a cause to support before 30 June, these urgent appeals need your help now.  

For communities around the world facing crisis and conflict, we are their lifeline. 

In Gaza, Sudan, Yemen, Lebanon, and more, your generosity ensures our teams are able deliver aid immediately at the wake of disaster.  

Because of you, clean water, food, shelter, and long-term support can reach places where the need is greatest.

Why EOFY giving matters 

End-of-financial-year giving is more being able to reduce the amount you pay for tax. It’s a moment to reflect on what matters, where you can choose to act on it. 

In a world that can feel overwhelming, EOFY donations are your way to make an impact the way you want. Stand with people facing crises. Support communities fighting inequality. Help create a future where dignity, justice and opportunity aren’t defined by where you live. 

You don’t have to give big to make a difference. Just give with purpose. Explore our current appeals and donate before 30 June to help create lasting change, one action at a time. 

EOFY donations FAQ 

In the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar, certain days are more virtuous than others. One such day is the 10th of Muharram, the Day of Ashura, which falls in the first month of the Hijri year.

Last year, the Day of Ashura fell on July 5, 2025. This year, Ashura 2026 is projected to begin on Thursday June 25, 2026. This is subject to change depending on the sighting of the moon.

What is the Day of Ashura? 

“Ashura” comes from the word “Asharah”, which means ten in Arabic. Fittingly, it falls on the 10th of Muharram.  

The Day of Ashura commemorates various significant historical events. This includes the day when Allah (SWT) saved Prophet Musa (AS) and his people from the tyranny of Pharaoh (Fir’aun) in Egypt. 

Ashura is also a solemn occasion. It marks the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (AS) (also referred to as Imam Hussein ibn Ali), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), along with his family members and companions, in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. 

The Historical Significance of the Day of Ashura 

The Battle of Karbala 

The Battle of Karbala took place in Iraq in Muharram, 61 AH. It was fought between a small army consisting of the family and companions of Imam Husayn (AS). As well as a much larger army sent by Yazid ibn Muawiyah, the Umayyad Caliph at that time. 

The battle took place because Imam Husayn (AS) refused to pledge allegiance to Yazid ibn Muawiyah. Yazid was tyrannical and had taken it upon himself to assume the Muslim leadership after the death of his father.  

On the 10th of Muharram, Imam Husayn (AS) and 72 of his companions were brutally martyred by the enemy camp. Imam Husayn (AS) was brutally decapitated, and many of the others lost were male relatives of the Prophet (ﷺ). They nobly sacrificed their lives as a stand against oppression and to preserve Islam.  

As one of his beloved grandsons, Imam Husayn (AS) was very close to the Prophet (ﷺ). He would climb on his back during prayer as a child. His significant position in Islam is highlighted in the following Hadith: 

The Story of Musa 

On the Day of Ashura in the time of Prophet Musa (AS), Allah saved the Prophet and his people (Bani Isra’il) from the tyrannical Pharaoh (Fir’aun) and his army.  

The Pharaoh was extremely violent and corrupt in his rule. He spread blasphemy as he declared himself as God. The Prophet Musa (AS) refused to follow the Pharaoh and tried to encourage him to worship Allah (SWT). However, the Pharaoh would not accept that there was a power higher than himself. Fuelled by rage and arrogance, he sent a large army to destroy the Prophet and his followers.  

As the army chased Prophet Musa (AS) and his followers, he made the following famous Dua, as mentioned in Surah Ash-Shu’ara:

As a result of his patience and firm faith, Allah (SWT) parted the Red Sea so that Prophet Musa (AS) and his followers could reach safety. He then sent a punishment to the Pharaoh and his army. This allowed the waves to crash upon them and submerge them into the sea. 

As Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’an:

The Story of Ashura and Other Prophets (AS) 

The Day of Ashura was also significant in the time of other prophets. For example, in the time of Prophet Nuh (AS), some narrations say that on the day of Ashura, Allah (SWT) returned his ark to dry land after the flooding stopped. It was a day of relief and celebration for the Prophet and his devoted companions.  

Some narrations also say that Ashura was the day that Prophet Adam (AS) repented and was forgiven by Allah (SWT) after eating the forbidden fruit. Others say it was the day Prophet Yunus (AS) was released from the belly of the whale and Allah (SWT) forgave his people.  

Virtues of Ashura 

Ashura is a virtuous day when the rewards of good deeds are multiplied. Some recommended actions include reading the Qur’an, doing nafl (voluntary) prayers, and making Dhikr.  

Two deeds, in particular, are mentioned in ahadith to especially perform on Ashura. These are fasting and giving charity. 

Fasting on the Day of Ashura  

The tradition of fasting on the Day of Ashura began when Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) observed the Jewish people fasting on this day to commemorate their deliverance.  

He (ﷺ) said: “We are closer to Musa than you are,” referring to the Jewish people, and advised Muslims to fast on ‘Ashura’. (Sahih Al-Bukhari) 

The Prophet (ﷺ) also made fasting on Ashura a priority. As mentioned in this Hadith, where one of his companions, Ibn ‘Abbas, said, 

Fasting also on Ashura is also an opportunity to earn more rewards from Allah (SWT). When asked about fasting on this day, the Prophet (ﷺ) said, “It expiates [wipes out the minor sins of] the past year.” (Sahih Muslim)  

Prophet (ﷺ) on fasting the day before Ashura 

Scholars recommended to fast on the 9th of Muharram along with the 10th of Muharram (‘Ashura). This is due to the Hadith: 

The Prophet (ﷺ) wanted to fast on the 9th, to differ from the People of the Book. If one misses the 9th, some scholars also recommend fasting on the 11th of Muharram. Fasting on the day after Ashura could also be done to ensure one catches the 10th of Muharram, as it depends on the moon sighting.  

Therefore, it is virtuous to fast:  

• Just the Day of Ashura 
• or to fast the 9th and 10th, 
• or to fast the 10th and 11th. 
• Some scholars would even fast the 9th, 10th and 11th of Muharram. 

Any one of these options is recommended. 

Giving Charity on the Day of Ashura 

As well as fasting on the Day of Ashura, giving charity is another beneficial deed you can do to earn great rewards on the blessed day.  Prophet Muhammed (ﷺ) said,

They are many ways to give charity, including paying Zakat if you haven’t done so this (hawl) year. You can give Sadaqah to help those in need across the world, as well as spend money on your family.  

You can also give Zakat or Sadaqah through organisations such as Islamic Relief. These funds then gets distributed to our Muslim brothers and sisters suffering across the world, helping them work towards a brighter future.

All in all, it’s important to make the most the Day of Ashura. As a blessed time with great opportunities for rewards from Allah (SWT), take this day to engage in more acts of worship and reflect on the significant events that took place on the day.

With the new Hijri year well and truly underway, many exciting, spiritual events await us in the coming months. But exactly what role does the Islamic Calendar have in our lives?  

The Hijri calendar marks the dates of significant religious events. It helps Muslims observe fasting Ramadan, the Eid days (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) and the period for Hajj in Dhul Hijjah – just to name a few.  

In other words, the Islamic Hijri calendar is a valuable tool. One that can help us fulfil our religious obligations, including the pillars of Islam. 

What is the Islamic Calendar?

The Islamic calendar is also known as the ‘Hijri’ calendar. This is because it starts from the year the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) made Hijrah (migration) from Makkah to Madinah in 622 AD, due to persecution by the Quraysh.  

Currently, in 2026, we are in 1448 AH. AH stands for ‘After Hijrah’. In Latin, AH denotes ‘Anno Hegirae’ which means ‘the year of the Hijrah’. 

When was the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar Created?

The Hijri Calendar wasn’t established until after the passing of the Prophet (ﷺ). It was formalised during the time of the second rightly guided Caliph, Umar ibn Al-Khattab (RA) as they needed a clear system to identify and document important dates.

However, the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions (sahabah), among whom included Umar (RA), still observed the same twelve lunar months used in the Islamic Calendar.  

The months of Muharram, Safar, Rabi ‘al-Awwal, Rabi ‘al-Thani, Jumada Awwal, Jumada Thani, Rajab, Sha’ban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhul Qadah and Dhul Hijjah existed well before the establishment of Islam as a religion. The Qur’an also reference the twelve months in Surah At-Tawbah: 

The Making of the Hijri Calendar

Before the Hijri Calendar, dates would be recorded only using the lunar months without indicating the year itself. This method of recording dates continued until Umar (RA) received a letter from the governor of Basra, Abu Musa al-Ash’ari (RA) who questioned the difficulty they had in identifying the exact dates.  

At this, Umar (RA) saw the need to establish a proper dating system. He quickly assembled important and senior figures within the community, including other companions of the Prophet (ﷺ), to establish a formal calendar for the Muslims to use.

How did they choose the year to start the calendar?   

The decision to start the Islamic Calendar from the year of Hijrah was unanimous, but it came after lengthy discussions.

Some council participants suggested adopting various existing calendar models, such as the Roman and Persian calendars. However, Umar (RA) disliked the idea.

Other suggestions included the descent of the first revelation (Nuzul Al-Qur’an), the Prophet (ﷺ)’s birth and his departure. All significant events, however, none of these suggestions were viable.

The exact year of the first revelation was contested among the companions. So was the exact year of the birth of the Prophet (ﷺ).

As for the departure of the Prophet (ﷺ) from this world, it was one of the saddest moments in history for Muslims. They didn’t want to associate the start of the new calendar with renewed grief.

Eventually, there was a suggestion for the calendar to start from the year of Hijrah. Umar, and subsequently, the council, voted in favour of this idea as the time the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions arrived in Madinah after migrating from Makkah had a clear date.

How was Muharram Chosen as the First Month? 

How does the Islamic Calendar work?   

The Islamic calendar follows the movements of the moon – the lunar cycle. That means the placement of each month differs from year to year. Generally, it will move back by about 10 to 11 days on the Western calendar.  

The conventional Gregorian Calendar has 365 or 366 days a year. In turn, each month is around 30 to 31 days. However, a Hijri year only has 354-355 days. This is because each lunar cycle usually lasts 29 or 30 days.

These cycles are described by Allah (SWT) in Surah Yunus:  

The Islamic Months

The Hijri calendar is made up of 12 months. Every month is determined by observing the moon.  

If the new crescent moon is spotted on the twenty-ninth day, then the new month begins on the next day. If the crescent is not spotted, then the new month starts after the thirtieth day.  

The name of each month in the calendar has a particular meaning. Some months reference different seasons or significant events that took place in history.  

Muharram 

This is the first month in the Hijri calendar. Its name means ‘forbidden’. This month came about to prevent the Arabs from fighting.  

‘Ashura also takes place on the 10th day of this month. This day commemorates many significant events in Islamic history, including the day Allah (SWT) saved Musa (AS) and Bani Israil from Fir’aun and his army.

Safar 

The meaning of the second month’s name is ’empty’. This is because, in pre-Islamic times, people from Makkah used to leave their homes in search of food during this month.

Rabi al-Awwal 

The word Rabi means ‘spring’. Al-Awwal means ‘the first’. Together, this month means ‘the first spring’. 

Rabi al-Thani 

The name of this month means ‘the second spring’. It is also sometimes referred to as Rabi al-Akhirah or ‘the last spring’ because it marks the end of the Spring season. 

Jumada al-Awwal 

The word Jumada means ‘dry/parched’. In pre-Islamic times, the land tended to be very dry during this month, either due to intense heat or sources of water being frozen due to cold temperatures. 

Jumada al-Thani 

The first part of this month’s name has the same meaning as the previous month. However, as it marks the end of the land being dry, it is sometimes called ‘Jumada al-Akhirah’ which means ‘the end of the dry season’. 

Rajab 

This month is derived from the word ‘Rajaba’, which means ‘respect.’ Isra and Mi’raj, the “Night Journey” took place on the 27th of the month.  

Isra and Miraj was a miraculous event where the Prophet (ﷺ) travelled from Makkah to Masjid Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem before ascending to heaven, all in one night.  

Sha’ban 

This month means ‘scattered’. This was because it would mark the time of year when Arab tribes would disperse to find water and new pastures. 

Ramadan 

The name of this month derives from the root word ‘Ramad’ which means ‘burning’. It references the scorching heat that characterised this month. 

Ramadan is an important month in Islam as it is when Muslims observe sawm (obligatory fasting). It is also an extremely blessed month. One has more opportunities to do good deeds, as Allah SWT has locked all the devils up (Bukhari and Muslim).

We also get more rewards for righteous deeds in Ramadan, especially on the Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr), which is better than a thousand months (Quran 97:3).

Shawwal 

The name of this month means to carry or lift because during this time, female camels would carry a new camel fetus, and would produce less milk as a result. 

Eid al-Fitr falls on the first of this month, marking the end of the fasting month (Ramadan). It is a day of celebration, exchanging gifts and spending time with loved ones.  

Dhul Qidah 

The name of this month literally translates to “the one of sitting/truce” because all fighting ceased during this month. 

Dhul Hijjah 

This month is called ‘the one of pilgrimage’ because it is the month in which Hajj is performed. The first 10 days of this month are also extremely blessed, especially the day of Arafah.

Eid al-Adha also falls on the blessed 10 days, on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. Similar to Eid al-Fitr, it is also a day when Muslims gather to spend time and enjoy festivities with loved ones.  

This celebration also commemorates the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) through Qurban. Qurban is an act of worship that involves slaughtering a sacrificial animal for the sake of God.

Du’a for the New Year and Months

The Sahabah or companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) would say the following du’a when a new month or new year would begin: 

May this year bring with it many blessings and benefits. And may we get even closer to Allah (SWT) this year, ameen! 

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar. It marks the start of the Islamic New Year.  

Beyond being the start of another Hijri year, Muharram is also a sacred month. One with great opportunities to increase our rewards. So how do we make the most of it?  

What is Muharram? 

In Arabic, “Muharram” means “forbidden”. This refers to it being one of the four sacred months in which warfare is forbidden. In Surah At-Tawbah, it says:  

The four months are mentioned by name in this hadith, where the Prophet (ﷺ) said:  

As such, in these months, Muslims are encouraged to engage in increased worship, for the rewards for good deeds are multiplied.

When is Muharram 2026? 

Muharram is the first month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar. Based on a lunar cycle, the sighting of a new moon determines the start of a new Islamic month. 

Last year, Muharram 2025 began on Thursday, 26th June 2025. In 2026, the first Islamic month begins on the evening of Tuesday, 16th June 2026, depending on the sighting of the moon.  

Key dates in Muharram 

There are 12 months in the Islamic calendar, but we tend to know more about some months than we do about others.  

While everybody knows that we fast in Ramadan and about the sacrifice of Dhul Hijjah, Muharram is a bit less well-known.  

However, its religious and historical significance is extensive, as many important events have occurred in this month.  

1st Muharram 

The 1st Muharram marks the beginning of the new Islamic Year. This lunar calendar (also called the Hijri calendar) starts from the hijrah (emigration) of the Muslims to Medina and the establishment of the first Islamic state in 622CE. 

There are no prescribed acts of worship for Muslims to observe on the 1st of Muharram. However, as the beginning of a sacred month, Muslims may use it as a time to renew their intentions to do good for the year ahead.  

It can also be a day to reflect on the journey and struggle of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his Sahabah (companions), and other Prophets throughout history as several significant historical events occurred during this month.  

The Day of Ashura 

The Day of Ashura falls on the 10th of Muharram. It is one of the most virtuous days of the Islamic year.  

One of the reasons for its significance is the many events in Islamic history that take place on this day.  

The Battle of Karbala 

The battle of Karbala (680CE/61 AH) that occurred on Ashura marks a conflict of many great tragedies.  

It was fought between a small army of the supporters and family of the Prophet (ﷺ) and the army of Yazid, the Umayyad Caliph who had a significantly larger army. There, the martyrdom of Husayn (AS) (also referred to as Imam Hussain ibn Ali), one of the Prophet (ﷺ)’s grandsons, took place.  

In a hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) once said:   

Many of Prophet (ﷺ)’s family members and companions were also martyred during the battle. In their martyrdom, we reflect on these tragedies and their struggles in striving for the cause of God.

The Prophets (AS) and Ashura 

The Day of Ashura also commemorates when Allah (SWT) freed the Prophet Musa (AS) and his people (Bani Isra’il) from the Pharaoh (Fir’aun) and his army.  

Some narrations also mention significant events from other Prophets (may peace be upon them all).  

On this day, Allah (SWT) returned Prophet Nuh (AS)’s arc to dry land after the flooding stopped.  

For Prophet Adam (AS), it was the day he repented and was forgiven by Allah (SWT) after eating the forbidden fruit.  

While, for Prophet Yunus (AS), it was the day Allah (SWT) released him from the belly of the whale and forgave his people. 

As such, the Day of Ashura is a great day for reflection and increasing in good deeds – and one we should not miss out on! 

What should we do in Muharram? 

Muslims commemorate Muharram as one of the four sacred months. It also holds the title of ‘the month of Allah’, (shahr Allah al-Muharram شَهْرُ اللَّهِ الْمُحَرَّمُ) making it one of the most blessed months in the Islamic calendar. (Muslim) 

Therefore, it is a good time for Muslims to engage in acts of worship. This includes reflecting, giving Sadaqah, increasing nafl (voluntary) prayers, reciting Qur’an, and fasting.

Fasting during Muharram 

Muharram is one of the best Islamic months to fast in. Many ahadith report about the importance of fasting in Muharram, especially on the Day of Ashura.  

Fasting on 9th Muharram 

The Prophet also recommended his people to fast on the day before Ashura (9th Muharram). This is due to the Hadith: 

Thus, the Prophet (ﷺ) wanted Muslims to also fast on the 9^th to differ from the People of the Book. If one misses the 9th, one can fast on the 10th and 11th of Muharram. However, it is also okay to only fast on the 10th, if one is unable to also fast the day after or before it.  

Build a Muharram Action Plan

The sacred months offer us the opportunity to seek the mercy and favour of Allah (SWT). Thus, there is an opportunity to gain more rewards every day.  

There are many simple virtues we can do to take advantage of the benefits of Muharram. This month, try to…

• Fast: Keep a fast on the 9th and 10th Muharram (the Day of Ashura), or on the 10th and 11th Muharram. Fasting expiates sins. 
• Reflect: If you are unable to fast, reading the Qur’an or doing Dhikr can help you to feel the blessings of Muharram. Remember, any gathering for the sake of Allah SWT will also be filled with barakah and the Angels will join you.
• Give: Muharram marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year, so it’s the perfect time to make resolutions and establish good habits like giving regular Sadaqah (charity), so that you can gain blessings all year round.

Make the most of the End of Financial Year (EOFY) 2025-26

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As the end of the financial year draws near, so does the dreaded tax season. Many of us have started sorting through our receipts, trying to figure out which purchases we can claim as a deduction on our tax return. These include any significant charitable donations made towards an ACNC-registered charity with DGR status, such as Islamic Relief Australia.

However, as Muslims, is it possible for us to claim any donations (Sadaqah, etc.) we make as tax deductions? The short answer? Yes! But to help you further, here are answers to some commonly asked questions on claiming a tax deduction for your donations.

FAQs: Tax Deductions and EOFY Charity Giving

How do tax deductions work for Australian charities?

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) lists “gifts and donations” as eligible for tax deductions. If you make a donation over $2 AUD to a charity that has DGR status (as Islamic Relief Australia does), you can claim that back as a deduction on your tax return. This means you get a component of what you gave before the end-of-financial-year (EOFY).

What are EOFY donations? 

End of financial year (EOFY) donations are charitable donations made before midnight on 30 June. In Australia, donations of $2 or more to a registered charity with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status can be claimed as a deduction on your tax return. EOFY donations can help reduce your taxable income (allowing you to pay tax on a lower income) while supporting the causes you care about most. 

To qualify, your donation must: 

• Be made before 11:59 pm AEST on 30 June 
• Be to an organisation with DGR status (like most registered charities) 
• Be a true gift, not a contribution (you don’t receive anything in return) 
• Have a receipt or proof of the donation

How do EOFY donations help with your taxes?

While you won’t be able to get a refund for all your EOFY donations, they can reduce how much tax you pay.

Here’s how it works.

When you lodge your tax return, you can claim any eligible donations made during the financial year.  

For example, if your income is $70,000, and you donate $1,000 to a DGR-endorsed charity, you may only be taxed as if you earned $69,000. 

How much return you get back depends on your income and marginal tax rate, but the principle is simple: the more you give (within your means), the less tax you may owe. 

How to make an EOFY donation

Making an end-of-financial-year donation doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s just takes five simple steps. 

EOFY Giving Checklist 

• Choose a registered charity 
• Donate $2 or more 
• Give before 30 June 
• Keep your receipt 
• Claim it on your tax return.

Does claiming donations as a tax deduction affect the intention with which you gave?

No, it doesn’t take away in any way from the initial donation you gave. It has achieved its intention and reached its beneficiary, insha Allah!

Rather, what this means is that you are reclaiming a portion of the money that is rightly owed back to you by Australian tax law. That is then extra money back in your pocket.

If I give what I receive back, is that extra reward?

Yes, insha Allah! It is wealth you could have done something else with, so if you give it back in charity yet again, that is yet another sadaqah for you, insha Allah!

Is My Zakat still Valid if I Claim a Tax Deduction?

Yes, it’s still valid! When you pay Zakat, that money leaves your hands and is already being implemented, benefitting those who need it most. A tax-deduction can’t take that money back. It is a relief for the tax you paid to the government.

If you’re still not sure, the key question to ask is if your Zakat was confirmed to be paid to eligible recipients. If yes, then claiming tax back your Zakat is permissible.

Should I increase my donations at this time of year (at the EOFY)?

You can and should if your situation allows. It means you could claim back more as deductions, and your charity will go further than it may have otherwise.

Where should I donate?

To ANY cause you wish. With Islamic Relief Australia, all your donations are going to be eligible for these tax deductions. These include, but are not limited to:

• Food aid (hot meals, food packs, bread drives)
• Water access (water wells, mobile water trucks)
• Orphan support (education, healthcare, shelter and food)
• Health & Medical (eye cataract surgeries, mobility aid)
• Emergency relief (shelter, hygiene packs, heating)

In turn, as a signatory to the ACFIC code of conduct, we commit to upholding transparency, effectiveness, and ethical development practices in all our programs, ensuring the support of donors like you reaches those most in need, effectively and sustainably.

We encourage you to look at all our appeals and giving options. Alhamdulillah, thanks to the generosity of donors, we have:

• Fed thousands of families in crisis
• Delivered clean water to remote areas
• Restored sight through cataract surgeries
• Supported displaced mothers and children
• Provided urgent relief in war zones
• Cared for orphans across multiple countries

This year, your contributions before the EOFY on June 30 takes it even further. Support vulnerable communities, fulfil a charitable obligation, and potentially reduce your taxable income today in just a few simple steps.

May Allah (SWT) reward you for your generosity!

General EOFY donations FAQ 

Millions of lives are at risk unless international governments urgently renew commitment to tackle the worsening global hunger crisis, Islamic Relief warns.

Levels of hunger have doubled in the past decade, reversing years of sustained progress on food security that has saved many lives. Time is now rapidly running out to achieve the global goal of ending hunger by 2030. (i)

Hunger is not inevitable – there is enough food in the world for everyone, but inequality, climate change and conflict prevent many people from accessing it. Now global aid cuts are reversing hard-won gains, and the Middle East war is further disrupting supply chains and pushing up prices of staple goods, affecting the poorest people most of all.

• In Sudan three years of war has forced families and farmers off their land and disrupted agricultural production, creating the world’s biggest hunger crisis – at least 19.5 million people are suffering food shortages. (ii)
• In Gaza, 87% of all crop land has been damaged, leaving almost 80% of people reliant on humanitarian aid which Israel continues to impede. One in five Palestinians there are surviving on just one meal a day. (iii)
• In Somalia, prolonged drought has left 1.9 million young children needing treatment for acute malnutrition. With some areas now at risk of famine, funding cuts mean humanitarian aid is reaching just 12% of people in need. (iv)

War is one of the biggest drivers of hunger. A Sudanese farmer, Ahmed Hajj Bakhit, 60, told Islamic Relief that armed groups looted and destroyed his land and machinery:

“I’ve been farming in this area for over 40 years. Before the war we were doing very well. We had cows, lemon trees, and produced large quantities of clover. All year round I was producing clover without missing a single day. I never struggled financially.

“[Last year] They cut down all the lemon trees, burned the land. Our well, which had motors, was looted. They took the large diesel generator. The pumps, starters, cables and pipes were completely taken.

“Now the seeds have become very expensive. Energy is expensive. And with the extra costs like pesticides and harvesting, I’d need a huge amount of money. But now of course no one has money. Right now, I can’t even afford a single sack of fertiliser. Everyone has been affected by this war and by the destruction of the farms. People are starting over from scratch. Many people have sold their farms because the country is destroyed.

“Sudan, by God, is a good country and a rich country, with fertile lands. It just needs something to help it grow again.”

Many international commitments to tackle global hunger and address the climate crisis have failed to materialise, and disregard for international law is fuelling hunger – with warring parties forcing farmers off their land, blocking aid and attacking humanitarian workers.

Islamic Relief is calling for a new global approach to hunger that upholds international law, helps communities adapt to climate change, and invests more in early preventative action rather than responding once people are already starving and need emergency aid. Food crises are usually predictable and acting early saves both lives and money, yet anticipatory warnings are repeatedly ignored.

Islamic Relief works to address the hunger crisis in around 40 countries worldwide – supporting climate-resilient agriculture and irrigation, improving livelihoods and access to finance, maintaining nutrition clinics and health centres, and providing emergency food aid. This month Islamic Relief is distributing qurbani food parcels to vulnerable families to mark Eid al-Adha.

(i) The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG2) committed to action to achieve zero hunger by 2030 and ensuring that all people have access to safe, nutritious and sufficient food all year round. https://globalgoals.org/goals/2-zero-hunger/

(ii) Based on latest assessment from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification

(iii) Based on latest data from UN OCHA

(iv) Based on latest assessment from the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification

Dhul Hijjah is upon us! The sacred month that holds the ten best days of the year. It’s a time when Muslims around the world reflect on the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). A time to embrace spiritual renewal and perform one of the most profound acts of devotion: Qurban (sacrifice).  

At Islamic Relief Australia, Qurban is more than a distribution project. It’s a globally coordinated, compassion-driven, Shariah-compliant program that changes lives—and hearts. It’s your opportunity to take the story of Ibrahim (AS) and turn it into real impact for those who need it most. 

Here’s a deeper look into why giving your Qurban through Islamic Relief is one of the most meaningful choices you can make this Dhul Hijjah. 

You Bring the Spirit of Eid to the Doorstep of the Forgotten

Imagine Eid without food on the table. For millions of families in crisis-affected countries—those facing famine, war, displacement, or extreme poverty—meat is a luxury they only dream of.

When you give Qurban through Islamic Relief, you’re not just feeding a family. You’re saying, “You’re not forgotten. You’re part of our Ummah. You are loved.” You’re delivering dignity.

Our Qurban Goes Where Others Don’t—Or Can’t

Islamic Relief reaches all corners of the world. From the drought-stricken plains of Somalia to war-ravaged Yemen, the refugee camps of Bangladesh, and remote villages in Mali—Islamic Relief works in some of the hardest-to-reach and highest-need regions in the world. 

And we don’t just deliver—we serve. Our teams live and work within these communities. We know the terrain, the culture, and the needs. This means your Qurban reaches those most vulnerable, in the right way, at the right time. 

Shariah Compliant, Quality Assured, Ethically Delivered Qurban

Our Quality Assured Qurban Program is not a slogan—it’s a promise. 

Every step of the Qurban process is designed to reflect Islamic values and humanitarian ethics.

We raise healthy animals that meet Islamic standards (no defects, minimum age, well cared for). These animals also go through a humane slaughtering process, where they are treated with dignity and care.

At the slaughtering of an animal, we ensure clean and hygienic meat handling, with minimal waste. Once the meat is prepared for Qurban it is delivered to those most in need in time for Eid Al-Adha.

This means your Qurban isn’t just halal—it’s tayyib (pure, wholesome, ethical). Because, at Islamic Relief, we strive to honour both the letter and the spirit of the Sunnah for Qurban.

Every Pack Feeds. Every Pack Matters. 

Each Qurban pack contains approximately 2.5 kg of fresh meat, providing enough to feed a family of four for up to a week. But it’s more than just sustenance. 

In Sudan, for an elderly widow, it’s relief. For a single mother in Afghanistan, it’s celebration. And for a displaced child in Yemen, it’s the joy of Eid. 

Your Qurban turns a ritual into restored hope. 

A Thoughtful System That Prioritises the Most Vulnerable

We don’t distribute meat randomly. Islamic Relief uses a scoring system to ensure your Qurban reaches the families who need it the most, including: 

You’ll need a certain number of pebbles for each of the three days. The breakdown is as follows:

• Families living below their country’s poverty line 
• Female-headed households
• Families with elderly or disabled members
• Households with children under five
• Pregnant and lactating mothers
• Families with no access to local markets

This ensures your donation isn’t just symbolic—it’s strategic. 

Transparent Qurban Options to Match Your Heart and Budget 

Islamic Relief offers four Qurban groups based on region and cost. This includes: Group A – $110 (Mali, Niger), Group B – $175 (Kenya, Somalia, Bangladesh, Ethiopia), Group C – $250 (Pakistan, South Sudan, Afghanistan, Indonesia, Sri Lanka), and Group D – $350 (Sudan, Yemen) 

Want to spread more joy? You can also donate an Eid Gift for a child for just $25—a simple way to share Eid happiness with little ones who’ve endured hardship. 

Reviving the Sunnah, Right Where You Are 

Not everyone can go to Hajj—but everyone can partake in the spirit of sacrifice. 

By offering Qurban through Islamic Relief, you honour the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), support communities in need, and reap the immense rewards of the best days of the year—all from wherever you are. 

Give with Heart, Trust, and Purpose with Islamic Relief 

Since 1984, Islamic Relief has been saving lives and restoring dignity in over 40 countries. We handle your Qurban with integrity, compassion, and professionalism. Because we know it’s not just a donation—it’s an amanah.  

This Dhul Hijjah, let your Qurban go further—to the places others can’t reach, to the people who need it most. 

Through escalating assaults and fragile ceasefires, how is Islamic Relief delivering aid in Gaza?

Two years on, Israel’s deadly attacks have killed hundreds of civilians, including babies and children, to the point that nowhere is safe in Gaza.

This current update provides clarity on how our teams can continue delivering aid inside Gaza at the moment. This includes how Islamic Relief delivers aid and what type we distribute. 

The Breaking of the Ceasefires

The onslaught on 18 March 2025 was the deadliest since the ceasefire was announced in January. Families were woken as bombs tore through homes and shelters for displaced people. The attack struck without warning in the dead of night, with complete disregard for the safety of civilians.

Even before then, on March 2, Israel blocked all food, medicine, fuel, and other vital supplies from entering Gaza. This, along with bombing and starving Palestinians in Gaza, was a clear violation of international law.

The Israeli military started to order evacuations in northern and eastern Gaza, causing mounting fears of a renewed ground offensive.

The situation horrifyingly echoed last year’s forced displacement orders. Actions that forced families into increasingly confined areas, without adequate humanitarian assistance and under continuous bombardment.

Today, despite the ceasefire deal effective Friday, 10 October 2025, continuous shelling and attacks across Gaza, including “safe” zones, are causing persistent civilian casualties.

Yet, even with the dangers of delivering aid in Gaza, we, at Islamic Relief, remain committed to supporting the people and preventing further suffering. Currently, our team continues to deliver on the ground, distributing essential aid such as food, water, education, and other urgent support.

Islamic Relief’s Ongoing Presence in Gaza

Islamic Relief has been active in Palestine since 1997. We had a permanent office in Gaza, which was unfortunately destroyed late last year during one of the many airstrikes. However, our team is still active. We continue to operate in the Gaza Strip and deliver aid on a daily basis.  

Our team is active throughout Gaza. Currently, Islamic Relief focuses on supporting orphan families, distributing food, wellbeing support, education, cleaning, and hygiene services and other essential aid. Since October 7, 2023, we have delivered water, medicine, medical items, hygiene/dignity kits, psychosocial support, and healthcare services. 

Addressing Current Concerns About Getting Aid in Gaza

There is a significant amount of confusion regarding the delivery and distribution of aid in Gaza. News agencies are not always providing accurate or up-to-date information. As a result, some of our donors are confused as to what is happening, and three current general concerns have emerged.  

How Does Anything Get into Gaza?

The first concern is that nothing is getting into Gaza due to the ongoing blockade. Yes, the truth is that major international NGOs face imminent deregistration by the Israeli authorities, and most have been unable to deliver any supplies to Gaza since 2 March, even with the new ceasefire. However, many aid organisations, like Islamic Relief and our partnering organisations, such as the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF, still have operations on the ground. We are searching every avenue possible to obtain supplies to continue delivering aid. Furthermore, our partnerships that help deliver medical aid, such as with the Palestinian Australian and New Zealand Medical Association (PANZMA), remain our most consistent form of aid.

How Can There Be Supplies Available in Gaza?

The second concern is that nothing is available within Gaza – no shops or suppliers, and no cash economy. While it is true that food and goods are hard to find, there are suppliers. Recently, prices for almost all items have been significantly lower due to increased supply. However, they remain above pre-war levels, partially because of an added illegal cost referred to as “coordination fees.” 

Likewise, availability remains critically low for essential, nutritious items, such as meat, chicken, fish, eggs, and dairy. On the other hand, non-essential items, such as sweets, chocolate, and soft drinks, are becoming increasingly visible in markets. Limited quantities of fuel and cooking gas are also now entering Gaza.

There is also some cash available, though getting access to this money is difficult and expensive. This is where the multipurpose cash grants Islamic Relief provides can help. Through a specialised account system, it tries to help ease the process of attaining cash, allowing families to purchase the supplies they need, without leaving them with unnecessary items.

Where Does Islamic Relief Operate in Gaza?

The last concern relates to where within Gaza Islamic Relief is working. We are currently still working all throughout Gaza. If the bombing in the north and east escalates once again, we will continue to work in Middle Gaza and southern Gaza (where Rafah and Khan Younis are).

Overall, the situation is uncertain and subject to change. It is reasonable to consider the entire Gaza Strip to be a war zone, with the possibility that intense fighting will break out anywhere. 

Our Current Response

Islamic Relief teams in Palestine are active right now! Below is an update on the total activities implemented as of May 22, 2026. We are currently focusing on providing medical aid, delivering food where possible, and distributing multipurpose cash grants to orphans and their families.  

This week, we successfully provided comprehensive antenatal care services and awareness sessions to 329 pregnant women, in addition to the provision of vitamins and medicine.

IR Partners (Overall Emergency Responses)

• Distributed food parcels to over 169,000 HH.
• Delivered over 936,000 people clean water.
• Distributed vegetable packs to 1.6 million HH.
• Delivered cleaning services and hygiene supplies for 85 shelters.

Overall, we, in partnership with the IR family and the World Food Programme (WFP), have delivered over 75 million hot meals and food items since October 2023.

Making Food More Accessible in Gaza

At this stage, we are able to access a significant amount of food through our partnership with the World Food Program (WFP). WFP is a UN agency and supposedly has open access. Although this is not always the case, they do have the best chance of getting trucks in. We are therefore very fortunate to be partnering with them. We are also able to source some food within Gaza, although this is very limited and very expensive.  

What the Future Holds

As pointed out by the media and reports, the situation in Gaza is extremely volatile, dangerous, fluid, and unpredictable.

Our team is extremely courageous and committed and is doing everything in its power to continue delivering aid. It is hard to predict what will happen, so while we are very proud that we are delivering significant aid, particularly in distributing medical assistance and hot meals where possible, nobody can guarantee anything going forward.

We are committed to assisting and supporting our team by making sure they have the resources to carry on. Islamic Relief is committed to the rebuilding and reconstruction of Gaza in the long term.  

As the world marks the 78th anniversary of Nakba Day, four humanitarian workers from Islamic Relief Palestine share what ‘home’ means to them.

A memory suspended between what once was but is no longer

For me, ‘home’ is no longer just walls and a roof. It has become a memory suspended between what once was but is no longer.

Whenever I hear the word, small details rush to mind – details that once shaped my life; an apartment I finished with care and love a year before the war began, furnished with the most beautiful pieces, and warmth in every corner.

There was my daughter’s room, decorated with Cinderella drawings, where she laughed and dreamed. There was my son’s room, with the Spider-Man designs, reflecting his innocence and passion. I didn’t have enough time to truly enjoy it all. It was as if time itself was rushing me towards loss.

On my last visit to the house after our 10th displacement, I found it damaged – cracked walls, crooked doors, and windows without any glass. Yet, it still held something unseen; a hidden warmth, memories and hope.

That was when I realised that a home is not what a building’s walls contain, but what that place leaves within us.

I tried to recreate that feeling in the places we were displaced to. But something was always missing. Nothing resembled the smell of home, the laughter of my children in its corners, or the greetings of neighbours that once began my day.

The news of our home’s complete destruction reached me on the morning of Eid al-Adha 2025, at 9 o’clock.

‘May God compensate you with blessings, your house is gone.’

The news struck like lightning, yet I didn’t feel the pain immediately. I simply said, “Alhamdulillah.” I was like a football player who doesn’t feel an injury until the wound cools.

My real pain began when I returned to my family – the news had already reached them, and I saw the tears in my wife and children’s eyes.

Only then did I realise that I hadn’t just lost 4 walls, I had lost a part of my soul. The longing for every detail, even for the sounds of the neighbours, grew stronger.

For me, returning home is no longer a question of returning to a place, but to an entire life… one I am still searching for everywhere.

Home is a feeling of being understood

When I think about home, I do not really see a place or a building. It is more of a feeling, like something settling inside me.

Home is in the things like how the sunlight hits the same corner of the room every afternoon, the familiar creak of a door, or the smell of food drifting in before I’d even stepped into the kitchen – and stolen some from behind my mother’s back, just to taste it, before she’d yell at me, “lunch is ready, don’t fill your stomach!”

Home is not just where I am, it is a place where I don’t have to think about who I am.

Most of the memories I hold onto are not big or dramatic, they are just little moments. I remember sitting around a table where no one cared that everyone was talking at once. I remember hearing laughter carry from one room to another. Even the silence felt different.

It was comfortable, not empty. I remember evenings that stretched out long enough for stories to be told again and again. But they still feel worth listening to.

On their own, those moments do not seem like much. But together, they form something solid.

I have also realised that home is not always tied to a place. Sometimes, home is people. Home is in the way someone says my name or how they just know my habits, likes and dislikes without asking.

Home shows up in meals, nothing fancy, just familiar dishes. One bite of something I have eaten a hundred times can bring back so many memories.

Even small traditions matter. They do not have to be big celebrations planned for weeks. Just little things that quietly remind me that this is us and this is my home.

The last time I felt at home somewhere, nothing big had happened. No emotional reunion, no significant moment. It was just easy – I slipped back into things without thinking.

I did not feel like a guest; I did not feel like I had to explain myself. I felt understood. This is what home is for me: that feeling of being understood.

In the end, home is not really about walls or a specific place; home is about connection. It is about my family members and loved ones.

Home is wherever I can be myself, and with whomever I can be myself with, without having to explain.

It is what I go back to in life, or even just in my mind, when I need to feel like myself again – feel safe again – with all my family members and loved ones gathered together. That is my home.

Home is a place that carries us as much as we carry it

When I hear the word ‘home’, the first things that come to mind are safety, peace and warmth. I imagine the house we worked so hard to turn into exactly what we’d once dreamt of.

It was a simple home, but it was full of us. It had only 3 rooms – a room for my wife and I, a room for our only daughter, and a large room that held the laughter and dreams of our 4 sons.

Even the kitchen had a special spirit. It had been designed carefully by my wife. Every corner carried her personal touch.

We used to visit our house every Friday while it was still being built. We followed every small detail step by step, waiting with excitement for it to be ready. Although it was bought through a bank loan over 85 months, what we felt was not the weight of debt. It was the joy of a dream turning into reality.

The most beautiful days of our lives were spent in that home. Our children grew up there, in the Tel Al-Hawa neighbourhood of southern Gaza.

They made their first friends there. They got involved with the nearby kindergartens, schools and playgrounds. We used to walk to the sea together, and it was as if even the road there formed part of our daily happiness.

Life around us felt simple and close; our neighbours became like an extended family.

We often gathered on our balcony, grilled meat and chicken, laughed and shared our lives – as if we’d never run out of time. Every corner of that house held a memory. We built it step by step, leaving a part of ourselves in every part of it.

But our happiness did not last. Our home was destroyed during a period of conflict. We lost not only the building itself, but everything inside it: furniture, clothes, appliances, the children’s toys, books and schoolbooks. We lost so many memories at once. It was as if a part of our life suddenly went out.

Today, we live in a rented house, where we’re trying to recreate that feeling of ‘home’, but something always feels missing. I have come to understand that a true home is not just a place we live in, but something that carries us as much as we carry it.

Despite the pain, the memories remain warm in our hearts – a mixture of longing, sorrow, and hope.

The house may no longer exist as it once was, but it still lives within us, and the dream it represents remains alive, as if we are waiting for the day we’ll rebuild it again – not only with stones, but with everything we lost.

Home is no longer a place, but an ache within us

When the word ‘home’ is spoken, I do not see a door or a stretch of wall. The picture that forms in my mind instead is something vividly alive, a scene woven from delicate details that the eye might overlook, yet the soul faithfully remembers. It is there that memory quietly recreates itself, time and again.

Home, in the truest sense, is not merely a space we inhabit. It is a small homeland where our dreams reside. Where memories endure, untouched by the erosion of time.

It is the first scent that greets me before I cross the threshold. The soft light filtering through a window I know by heart, the familiar voice that gently dissolves the estrangement of the passing days.

It is the one place where I owe no explanations, where I don’t need to justify what I feel. It is my mirror to life, in which I exist exactly as I am, without masks or defences.

Within it, my memories gather in the simplest of forms – a fleeting laugh, a long conversation on a quiet night. Even a silence that soothes, rather than burdens. It is also where my journey into motherhood first began to take shape.

The beauty of home is that it is not confined to a place. Rather, it is a feeling that travels with us.

Sometimes all it takes is a familiar taste to recall my children’s early years, or an old melody that carries me back to my youth, and, for a fleeting moment, I am home again.

Yet, the longing persists. Some details cannot be recreated: the warmth of family, the order of things as they once were. Even the small, meaningful chaos we once lived within.

On 30 October, I left my home. I carried nothing but the Qur’an and a few belongings, leaving behind a lifetime suspended within its walls. Since that day, home is no longer a place. It has become an ache that dwells within us, wherever we go.

In the new place where war has forced me to live, I try to cultivate fragments of that feeling. I arrange my belongings with care, I hold tightly to tangible memories, and I create small rituals to restore a sense of familiarity.

Yet, there remains a part of home that cannot be carried with us, only longed for. And, if one day, dreams reclaim their place in reality, if I return to myself, to the home that once was, it will not merely be a journey from one place to another. It will be a return to a lighter self. A moment of pure belonging, where everything within me gently finds its balance again.

Home is where I began, and the refuge I return to whenever distance grows too heavy.

It is a presence that does not vanish, even in absence – a place that lives deeply within me, as I have lived deeply within it.

Memory overflows, and so does the heart. From the fabric of our daily lives emerges the simple beauty of Palestinian musakhan.

It was never just a meal; it was always a story of home and warmth. The scent of bread, the echo of our laughter, the taste of olive oil and olives all carry us back. They reopen the door to the home we all left behind.

The rising smoke of onions and sumac feels like a guide, leading us back to moments of safety we once knew. Each bite becomes a memory. The dish becomes a small embrace, one we cling to, trying to conceal the ache of separation.

We tell ourselves that houses can be rebuilt, so long as the taste of home lives within us.

But the truth remains: leaving home is unbearably painful. It fractures something deep within, and our hearts continue to carry that wound.

In the end, home transcends walls and geography. It becomes a state of warmth and belonging that lives within us. We may lose our houses and maps may be redrawn, but our true home remains, like a hidden secret within our hearts. And, perhaps, in a rare moment of truth, we come to realise that returning home was never about a place. It was always about finding a way back to ourselves.

These are the stories of Islamic Relief Palestine staff in their own words. Many of our colleagues, like the 4 above, have become displaced since October 2023, and are striving to support communities in need while also rebuilding their own lives. Please help them to continue being a lifeline to vulnerable people in Gaza.

Qurban, the act of sacrificing an animal for the sake of Allah, is a central part of Eid al-Adha and commemorates the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

The spiritual act of devotion and charity has deep roots in the Qur’an and the teachings of our beloved Prophet ﷺ. It remains a powerful reminder of sacrifice, submission and generosity.

Here, we explore how Qurban is mentioned in the Qur’an and Hadith, highlighting its significance and spiritual rewards.

What does the Qur’an say about Qurban?

The Qur’an has several references to the act of sacrifice, illustrating both its historical roots and spiritual meaning.

Surah Al-Kawthar (108:2)

This concise verse ties together the two fundamental acts of worship – prayer and sacrifice – as signs of our dedication to Allah alone. It serves as a reminder to purify our intentions and perform Qurban solely for the sake of Allah’s pleasure

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:196)

This verse connects Qurban directly with the rituals of Hajj, underscoring its role as a devotional act. It also reflects Allah’s mercy by offering flexibility when pilgrims are unable to fulfil their obligations, showing that the intent and effort remain valuable.

Surah Al-Hajj (22:34)

This verse shows that sacrifice is a universal practice ordained by Allah for all communities. It reminds us that Qurban is a means of expressing gratitude for the blessings we have received. The act of sacrifice draws us closer to Allah through humility and submission.

Surah As-Saffat (37:107-110)

These powerful verses commemorate the moment Allah replaced Prophet Ibrahim (AS)’s son with a ram, rewarding his willingness to obey the divine command. It is the foundational moment behind the practice of Qurban. For it symbolises complete trust in Allah and the spirit of selfless devotion.

Surah Al-Hajj (22:36)

This verse details the process and purpose of Qurban. It includes the remembrance of Allah, the distribution of meat, and the importance of sharing. It highlights that the act is not only one of worship but also of charity, compassion, and communal care.

Hadiths on Qurban

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ strongly encouraged the practice of Qurban and taught its immense spiritual reward and significance.

The most beloved deed on the day of Qurban

Aishah (RA) narrated that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: 

This Hadith highlights the virtue of offering Qurban during Dhul Hijjah, particularly on the day of Eid Al-Adha.

Performing the sacrifice in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)’s devotion is one of the most beloved acts to Allah during this sacred time. For it helps Muslims fulfil a profound Sunnah and demonstrate gratitude and obedience to Allah.

The Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ

Anas bin Malik (RA) said:

This Hadith illustrates the Prophet ﷺ’s care in performing the sacrifice with attention, reverence, and gratitude to Allah, affirming its status as a meaningful Sunnah.

The Prophet’s sacrifice

Jabir bin ‘Abdullah said:

This Hadith highlights the spiritual significance of Qurban, with our beloved Prophet (PBUH) emphasising the intention behind the sacrifice and dedicating it entirely to Allah. 

His actions highlight the importance of performing Qurban with sincerity, acknowledging Allah as the ultimate recipient of the sacrifice.

The timing of the Qurban

Al-Bara’ bin `Azib narrated:

The Prophet (ﷺ) delivered the Khutba after offering the prayer on the Day of Nahr and said:

This narration clarifies that timing is essential for our Qurban to be valid. It underscores the need to observe the correct order of worship: first the Eid prayer, then the sacrifice. This is part of fulfilling the Sunnah properly and respectfully.

The significance of Qurban

Qurban is a symbol of our submission to Allah, our willingness to give, and our connection to the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)

Through this sacred act, we reflect on sacrifice and faith while bringing joy to those in need.

The meat from your Qurban reaches those struggling with hunger, ensuring that they, too, can share in the joy of Eid.