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.
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.
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 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’ve made a donation over $2 AUD to a charity that has DGR status (as Islamic Relief Australia does), you can claim the donations you give in charity (i.e. voluntary giving) back as a “deduction”. This means you get a component of what you gave in your end-of-financial-year (EOFY) 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!
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.
We encourage you to look at all our appeals and giving options, and at this time, Gazais the most important emergency relief campaign we are running.
May Allah (SWT) reward you for your generosity!
Let Your Generosity Go Further
Make the most of tax season. By giving more before the end of this June, you can increase you impact, supporting more of our brothers and sisters in need.
Islamic Relief is stepping up emergency aid in Bangladesh. Severe flooding has submerged entire communities in the northeast, leaving many families homeless and destitute. Islamic Relief staff report children and elderly people are now stranded in the open air under pouring rain.
Three days of extremely heavy rain and flash floods have affected around 1.6 million people in the districts of Sylhet, Sunamganj and Moulvibazar. It comes when the country is only just recovering from Cyclone Remal. A disaster that destroyed thousands of homes across Bangladesh in late May.
Almost 75% of Sylhet district is now flooded. More than half of the crops and paddy fields in the region submerged under water. Damage that is likely to have lasting impacts on people’s food security.
Islamic Relief is on the Ground in Bangladesh
Islamic Relief has long-term programmes in Sylhet and Sunamganj. We are now preparing to distribute dry food, hygiene kits to reduce the spread of water-borne diseases, and cash grants so that people can pay for essentials such as food, shelter and water. The distributions will reach an initial 5000 displaced people. It will also expand to reach more families over the coming days and weeks.
Enamul Haque, Islamic Relief Programme Manager in Bangladesh says:
Many families, including young children and elderly people, are now sleeping out in the open by the side of roads, with only plastic sheets to protect them from the heavy rain. Their homes have been washed away and they urgently need food, shelter and other aid.
“One of Islamic Relief’s own offices is now under 2 feet of water, but our staff managed to get all our supplies out in time. Roads are also submerged and communications networks are down, which makes it harder to respond and assess the full scale of the destruction.”
The flooding is expected to continue for the next couple of weeks, with flood water coming from upstream in India.
So far around 30,000 people have moved to shelter centres across Sylhet and Sunamganj, with this number expected to increase. In total around 825,000 people are reported to be affected in Sylhet, 650,000 in Sunamganj and 193,000 people in Moulvibazar.
In the face of war and displacement, Syrian refugees have shown remarkable resilience. This World Refugee Day, we share the story of Hana* and her family, who have navigated the challenges of displacement with strength and courage.
*Name changed to protect confidentiality
Leaving everything behind
Hana was once a thriving shop owner in the city of Aleppo. Her life was filled with bustling activity around running her small grocery store, which helped support her family. However, the outbreak of crisis turned her world upside down. Her shop was destroyed, and Hana’s family was forced to flee their home under the cover of night, seeking refuge in Lebanon.
“I remember the night we left,” she recalls. “We could hear the bombs in the distance. We packed what we could carry and just ran.” Hana, her husband Tarek, and their 4 children embarked on a perilous journey, eventually settling in a cramped apartment in Beirut, the Lebanese capital.
Struggling in a new land
Life in Beirut has been anything but easy. Tarek, a skilled carpenter, struggles to find work, and the family relies heavily on humanitarian aid. Hana’s days are spent caring for their children and trying to make their new home as comfortable as possible. “We lost everything, but we still have each other,” she says. “That’s what keeps us going.”
The psychological toll of displacement has been immense. Hana often finds herself overwhelmed by anxiety and fear for her children’s future. Recognising the need for support, she reached out to local aid organisations. Through Islamic Relief, Hana began attending psychological and social support sessions designed for refugees.
Sharing stories with other refugees: Finding strength in support
“The sessions were a turning point for me,” Hana explains. “I always considered myself strong, but these sessions made me even stronger.” The group therapy sessions provided a safe space for Hana to share her experiences and connect with other women facing similar challenges.
Hana formed close bonds with her fellow participants, creating a network of support that extended beyond the sessions. “We shared our stories, our fears, and our hopes. It was incredibly healing,” she says. The psychological support not only improved Hana’s mental wellbeing, but also gave her practical tools to manage her stress and anxiety.
Tarek’s journey as a refugee: Rebuilding from ruins
While Hana found solace in the refugee support sessions, Tarek struggled to adapt to their new life as refugees. The loss of his livelihood and constant worry about providing for his family weighed heavily on him. However, he found a renewed sense of purpose through a vocational training programme offered by Islamic Relief.
Tarek enrolled in a carpentry workshop, where he could hone his skills and regain his confidence. “Working with my hands again gave me hope,” he says. “It reminded me of who I am and what I’m capable of.” The training not only strengthened Tarek’s carpentry skills, but also provided him with a sense of community and support.
Building a new future
As Hana and Tarek continue to navigate their new lives in Lebanon, they remain hopeful for the future. Their children, inspired by their parents’ resilience, are adjusting well. Their eldest daughter, Lina, dreams of becoming a doctor, while their son, Ahmed, is excelling in his studies.
“I want my children to have the opportunities we never had,” Hana says. “I want them to be safe, to be educated, and to have a future full of possibilities.” With the support of Islamic Relief, Hana and Tarek are working towards rebuilding their lives and providing a better future for their children.
Islamic Relief stands in solidarity with refugees
Islamic Relief has been responding to forced migration (refugee and displacement) crises since we began our humanitarian work in 1984, and last year alone provided lifesaving support to around 800,000 refugees.
We are at the forefront of efforts to assist families forced from their homes, including those affected by crises in Syria, Gaza and Sudan, and by devastating droughts in Somalia and Ethiopia.
Along with providing lifesaving aid, Islamic Relief strives to address the root causes of displacement. We ease suffering by supporting host and displaced communities and helping communities to adapt to the changing climate.
Hana and Tarek’s story is a testament to the strength and resilience of Syrian refugees and highlights the critical need for ongoing humanitarian support to help families rebuild their lives. This World Refugee Day, let us remember the millions of displaced individuals like Hana and Tarek, and reaffirm our commitment to providing the support and resources they need to thrive.
Join us in supporting families who have been forced to leave their homes due to conflict and disaster. By donating to Islamic Relief, you can help provide essential resources and empower refugees to rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Give Relief to Syrian Refugees
You can be a lifeline for families like Hana’s. By giving to Islamic Relief, you help give hope and joy to those who have lost everything.
In the Horn of Africa, the confluence of natural disasters and conflict has forced millions from their homes. As Islamic Relief marks World Refugee Day, we turn our attention to the enduring spirit of those who have been displaced.
These are the stories of Amina and Sacdiya, 2 mothers whose lives have been upended by relentless droughts and violent unrest. Despite these challenges, they continue to strive for a better future for their children.
The crisis unfolds
The Horn of Africa is experiencing its worst humanitarian crisis in decades. 3 years of drought decimated crops and livestock, only for unexpected floods to wash away the little that remained.
According to the World Health Organization, over 50 million people in the region are facing acute food insecurity. Among them, the most vulnerable are children under 5, with mothers like Amina and Sacdiya doing everything possible to keep their families nourished and safe.
Amina: Fleeing from flames
Amina lived a peaceful life in the once-flourishing village of Kaaro in Somalia. Her days were filled with tending to her small farm where she grew vegetables and raised chickens. However, the onset of severe drought turned her fertile land into a barren desert. Without rain, her crops failed, and her chickens perished. The situation grew worse still when conflict erupted in her region, forcing her to flee with her family.
“We had to run from our home because the fighting was so close,” Amina recalls. “I could hear gunshots and see smoke rising from nearby villages. It was terrifying.” She gathered her 3 children and embarked on a harrowing journey to find safety, leaving behind everything they owned.
Now living in a camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs), Amina reflects on the life she had to abandon. “We were self-sufficient. We had enough to eat, and my children were happy. Now, we rely on aid for our survival.”
Despite the hardships, Amina remains determined to provide for her children. With support from organisations like Islamic Relief, she receives cash that enables her to buy essential food items. “I can at least get rice and beans for my children. It’s not much, but it’s something”.
Sacdiya: Surviving the floods
In Ethiopia’s Afar region, Sacdiya and her family faced a different but equally devastating struggle. For years, they endured relentless drought that dried up their wells and left their livestock parched. When the rains finally came, they brought not relief but destruction. Flash floods ravaged her village, sweeping away homes, livestock, and livelihoods.
Sacdiya vividly remembers the day the floods hit. “We heard a loud roar, and before we knew it, water was everywhere,” she says. “I grabbed my 4 children and ran towards higher ground. We lost everything in the flood, including our home and our animals.”
Displaced and destitute, Sacdiya’s family sought refuge at an IDP camp. Life in the camp is a daily struggle, but Sacdiya’s spirit remains unbroken. She has used cash provided by Islamic Relief to purchase food and basic necessities. “This help is a lifeline for us,” she explains. “It gives me the ability to choose what my family needs most. My children can eat, and I have hope for their future.”
Refugees and the Power of Resilience
Amina and Sacdiya’s stories are emblematic of the millions of families that have been uprooted by climate change and conflict in the Horn of Africa. Their resilience is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and adapt in the face of overwhelming adversity. Through the support of Islamic Relief, they are finding ways to survive and rebuild their lives.
For Amina, the hope is to one day return to her village and revive her farm. “I dream of the day I can go back home and see my children running through the fields again,” she says. For Sacdiya, the goal is to secure a stable future for her children. “I want them to go to school and have opportunities I never had,” she shares. “I want them to have a life where they don’t have to worry about their next meal.”
Refugees Around the World Need Our Support
On this World Refugee Day, we honour the resilience of refugees and displaced persons like Amina and Sacdiya Their stories remind us of the urgent need for continued humanitarian support and long-term solutions to address the root causes of displacement. As we reflect on their struggles and hopes, let us reaffirm our commitment to standing in solidarity with all those who have been forced to leave their homes in search of safety and a better life.
Join us in standing in solidarity with families forced to flee and donate to Islamic Relief to support our work to enable refugees to live dignified lives.
Help us prevent famine and mass deaths
In the Horn of Africa, natural disasters and ongoing conflict have ruined livelihoods and caused millions to die from hunger. Your donation will help us provide food and water to those who need it most.
Thank you for supporting our Qurban Program for Dhul Hijjah 2024!
During Eid Al-Adha, you helped Islamic Relief provide food to 2,824,393 people. By supporting our annual Qurban distributions, you brought relief to many affected by the world’s worst hunger crises and are on the verge of famine.
Eid al-Adha falls in Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar. It involves the tradition of Qurban. An act of worship where Muslims perform a sacrificial slaughter of an animal – traditionally goats, sheep, cows or camels. This action reflects upon the Prophet Ibrahim (AS)’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail for the sake of Allah (SWT).
Following the sacrifice, the meat is then distributed to people in need. For many, it is also the only meat they will get to eat this year.
Where Islamic Relief Distributed Its Qurban Programs for 2024
Islamic Relief’s Qurban distributions this year took place in 27 countries. These include Sudan, Afghanistan, Niger, Bangladesh, Kenya, Pakistan and many more.
In Sudan, more than a year of brutal conflict has left the country on the verge of famine. Farmers have been unable to plant and harvest crops and markets have been looted. Islamic Relief distributed Qurban fresh meat packs to help 80,000 people there.
In Gaza, Israel’s ongoing attacks and restrictions on aid mean children and elderly people are starving to death. Islamic Relief’s team and partners in Gaza distributed thousands of meat packs, in addition to our ongoing daily distributions of cooked meals for tens of thousands of families.
Some of the biggest Qurban distributions this year were in Mali and Niger, which are among the world’s most neglected crises, with rising numbers of children suffering from malnutrition. This year, we distributed more than 75,000 Qurban fresh meat packs in Mali and more than 70,000 in Niger.
In Bangladesh, Qurban distributions reached over 40,000 families – including both impoverished rural Bangladeshis and Rohingya communities who have fled violence in Myanmar.
More Eid al-Adha Giving
Eid al-Adha is also a time of joy and gift-giving. Islamic Relief teams also distributed over 18,000 Eid gifts such as clothes, shoes, school uniforms and school bags to children and families in 18 countries.
Zaheer Afzal, manager of Islamic Relief Worldwide’s Qurban and seasonal programs, says:
“Conflict, climate change and inequality are driving hunger worldwide. Thanks to generous donations from our supporters, Islamic Relief hopes to provide nutritious meat to at least 2 million vulnerable people in 27 countries during Eid al-Adha. This may be the only meat they get to eat this year.”
Each Qurban pack contains approximately 5kg of meat on average. Islamic Relief ensures that all distributions comply with Islamic guidelines and national laws, ensuring animal wellbeing and strict criteria on the age and health of animals.
Islamic Relief Afghanistan distributed 10,676 fresh meat packs to 8 provinces of Afghanistan in Eid Ul-Adha 2024 for Orphans, Widows, and Elderly families.
Islamic Relief is heartbroken to report that 117 children and young people cared for by our Orphan Sponsorship Program in Gaza are now known to have been killed.
In the last 8 months, more than 36,000 Palestinian people, including women and children, have been killed in Gaza. The grim death toll continues to rise as the crisis escalates. Islamic Relief’s team on the ground is doing all they can to deliver humanitarian aid – including through our Orphan Sponsorship Program.
We have rapidly expanded our sponsorship program, with the backing of generous Islamic Relief supporters worldwide. Now, we support over 14,000 orphans in Gaza.
The program provides financial support to thousands of the most vulnerable families. A feat possible thanks to our incredible colleagues in Gaza working tirelessly to support them despite the challenges.
With around 75% of Gaza’s population displaced, often repeatedly, telecommunications restricted, and travel dangerous, even keeping in touch with families for regular welfare checks is very hard.
Where an orphan’s whereabouts is now unknown, Islamic Relief social workers do everything they can to help locate them. But this can take a long time.
Often, the first clue that something is wrong is in the payment system. Families access their sponsorship money using an ATM card. If this money goes uncollected for a sustained period, then we check in on the family’s situation.
The team’s responsibilities now include going through a quarterly Ministry of Health list of the dead to identify any sponsored orphan or guardian that has been killed. We also work to confirm this information.
Sadly, we can now confirm the deaths of 64 sponsored children and young people, as well as 53 who the Orphan Sponsorship Program previously supported.
Sponsored children as young as 5 killed
Omar is the youngest sponsored child known to have died
Omar was only 5 when he died.
When he was killed, Omar had recently turned 5. A very energetic little boy, he was always on the move. He loved being outside, playing, swinging, jumping, and riding his bike.
An adventurous spirit, he climbed everything and was a playful, happy, friendly, and fun child. Part of a loving, happy family, Omar lived with his mother, siblings, and grandparents in Gaza City.
His mother dreamed that Omar would become an engineer when he grew up.
Aysha died just a month after her 12th birthday
12-year-old Aysha wanted to live life to the fullest.
She had spent her last summer holiday at a summer camp, determined, as always, to live life to the fullest.
Described by her Islamic Relief social worker as a “friendly, brave and polite girl”, Aysha had been thriving at school and aspired to become a doctor. She also liked to read, draw, and paint. She lived with her big family in Al Nusairat City. Since 2016, Aysha has been enrolled in Islamic Relief’s Orphan Sponsorship Program.
Ayman loved football and gymnastics
Ayman, 17, was a caring boy who wanted to be a doctor.
He was a caring son, helping his mother, who had rheumatoid arthritis, with housework and shopping. He lived with her, as well as his stepfather and 2 siblings in a modest flat in Jabalia City.
Ayman dreamed of becoming a doctor. He had also been supported by the Islamic Relief Orphan Sponsorship Program for over a decade.
He was killed shortly after his 17th birthday.
Sajeda was living with her family in a flat in Middle City when the escalation began
Sajeda, 8, died alongside her mother.
8-year-old Sajeda was the youngest of 5 children. Known for her friendly and calm personality, she loved drawing, playing with dolls, and watching cartoons.
Her favourite subject at school was Arabic language. She too hoped to become a doctor one day.
She died alongside her mother.
Courageous and helpful Ahmed also died with his mother
Ahmed, 11, had been sponsored by Islamic Relief since he was a baby.
The smart 11-year-old had lived in Gaza City with his mother. His hobbies included reading stories, watching cartoons, swimming and cycling.
His favourite subject was mathematics. He was also hoping to become a police officer or teacher in the future and was working to improve his school grades.
Islamic Relief had been sponsoring Ahmed since he was a baby.
Happy and friendly, Saly always had a ready smile
University student Saly, 21, hoped to help provide for her mother and sister.
She enjoyed reading, dancing, taking photos and swimming. A university student, she looked forward to becoming a pharmacist.
She wanted to help provide for her mother and sister, Rawan, with whom she lived in a flat in Rafah City before the escalation.
She lost her life aged 21 years old.
Orphaned children left without guardians
Some 72 guardians of sponsored orphans are now known to have been killed. 21 died alongside their child. Others leave behind children grieving the loss of their only caregiver.
With 24 sponsored orphans left without a guardian, Islamic Relief is working to identify surviving relatives to take on the role of guardian and collect Islamic Relief sponsorship money to provide for the child.
Islamic Relief offices around the world are breaking the news to sponsors of the children and young people who have died.
Many of our incredible sponsors are agreeing to continue their sponsorship of the grief-stricken family for 6 to 12 months, to avoid adding to their hardship.
Wherever possible, we transfer sponsorship to a sibling, which means the family does not lose the support from the program. If that is not possible, we move the sponsorship to support another child newly enrolled on the Orphan Sponsorship Program.
We fear that the death toll of sponsored orphans and guardians may increase. The dire situation in Gaza has left many Palestinians missing or displaced multiple times. Many bodies have also not been recovered from the debris of destroyed buildings.
As we reflect on the sponsored children, young people and their guardians killed alongside tens of thousands of other Palestinians, Islamic Relief redoubles our efforts to press for action to end the suffering of ordinary families in Gaza.
We urge the Islamic Relief family – our supporters, volunteers, staff, and partners – to join us in calling on world leaders to bring about an immediate and lasting ceasefire.
Qurban and Aqiqah are both significant acts of worship (ibadah) in Islam that both involve the sacrifice of an animal for the sake of Allah (SWT). Anyone who has the financial means to do Qurban and Aqiqah is highly urged to do it. As these are important rituals the Prophet (ﷺ) did rigorously at their assigned times.
While these two have some similarities, they are two different acts of worship, each with specific rules on how to perform them. So, what are the differences between Qurban and Aqiqah?
Qurban and Aqiqah in Islam
The Story of Qurban
Qurban commemorates the divine sacrifice Prophet Ibrahim (AS) made for the sake of Allah (SWT). It plays a significant part in Eid Al-Adha, the “festival of sacrifice”, in Dhul Hijjah.
The story behind the act of worship starts with a dream. A dream sent by Allah (SWT) to Prophet Ibrahim (AS) of him sacrificing his son, Ismail (AS), whom he loved dearly.
Despite his heavy heart, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) had full trust in his Creator to guide him through this hard task. He took his son to the top of Mount Arafah to prepare for the sacrifice. When Prophet Ibrahim (AS) told his son about the dream, Ismail (AS), following his father’s example, accepted this decree of Allah (SWT) and agreed that he must be sacrificed.
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) then blindfolded himself to ease his heavy heart while carrying out the slaughter. As he was about to begin the sacrifice, Allah (SWT) replaced Ismail (AS) with a ram, and his son was left unharmed.
The event was a test of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah (SWT), which he had greatly demonstrated. In honour of his devotion, Allah named him ‘Khalillullah’ in the Quran, which means an intimate friend of Allah.
“Who can be better in religion than one who submits his whole self to Allah, does good, and follows the way of Ibrahim the true in faith? For Allah did take Ibrahim for a friend.”
Quran 4:125
Qurban in the Quran
The story of Qurban serves as a reminder for us. To learn from Prophet Ibrahim (AS)’s full submission to Allah (SWT), which is the essence of Islam itself. His sacrifice is commemorated in these verse of Surah As-Saffat, which states:
“When the boy was old enough to work with his father, Ibrahim said, ‘My son, I have seen myself sacrificing you in a dream. What do you think?’
“He said, ‘Father, do as you are commanded and, God willing, you will find me steadfast.’ And when they had both submitted and he put him down upon his forehead, We called out to him, ‘Ibrahim, you have fulfilled the dream.’
“This is how We reward those who do good- it was a test to prove [their true characters]- And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice, And We left for him [favorable mention] among later generations: ‘Peace be upon Ibrahim!’”
Quran 37: 102-109
The Significance of Aqiqah
The birth of a child is a great blessing and gift from Allah (SWT). One of the many ways this is celebrated is through Aqiqah. It is a sacrifice offered as a symbol of one’s gratitude to Allah (SWT) for their newborn child.
Aqiqah is a confirmed practice of the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companions. As narrated by Samurah ibn Jundub, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“A boy is in pledge for his Aqiqah, Sacrifice is made for him on the seventh day, his head is shaved and he is given name.”
Likewise, when his two grandsons from his daughter Fatima (RA), Hasan and Husain, were born, the Prophet (ﷺ) offered an ‘Aqiqah for both of them, with two rams for each. (Sunan An Nasai)
Aqiqah is also not limited to a boy’s birth. It should also be offered when a girl is born. It was narrated that Aisha (RA) said:
“The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) commanded us to sacrifice two sheep for a boy’s ‘Aqiqah and one sheep for a girl.”
However, Aqiqah should also not be a hardship for a baby’s parents. While the sunnah is to offer two sheep or goats for a newborn son, if a parent can only afford one, then they should not have to bear the hardship of getting two.
When do we perform Qurban and Aqiqah?
When to perform Qurban
Muslims carry out Qurban during the days of Eid al-Adha, in Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final Islamic month. It should be done after Eid prayer, as practised by the Prophet (ﷺ)
‘Whoever, makes the sacrifice before Eid prayer must repeat the sacrifice, and whoever does it after the prayer has completed his sacrifice.’
Sahih Al Bukhari
You can offer Qurban every year, so long as it is during its set days in Dhul Hijjah (the 10th to the 12th or 13th). You can also do it as many times as you wish if you have the financial means to do so.
By contrast, Aqiqah can only be offered once in a lifetime. If a baby’s parents have already done ‘Aqiqah, there is no need to perform another one the following year.
When to Perform Aqiqah
Ideally, Aqiqah should be performed seven days after the child’s birth, as per sunnah. However, if the child’s parents or guardians cannot afford it, then they can do it at another time, as long as the child has not hit puberty yet. If a child reaches puberty before their parents can perform Aqiqah, then it is permissible for the child to perform it for himself.
Aqiqah is also not fixed to any event in the Islamic calendar and can be done anytime in the year. It is also permissible to perform Aqiqah during the Eid al-Adha period. Some Muslims do so as it is cheaper to buy a livestock animal during this time, due to the increase in supply to meet the demand for Qurban.
What animals can be sacrificed for Qurban and Aqiqah?
Livestock animals that can be sacrificed for Qurban include goats, sheep, cows and camels. For Aqiqah, it is sunnah to offer a goat or sheep for sacrifice.
Animals also make up a different number of shares in Qurban. Smaller animals, such as goats and sheep count as one Qurban share. Larger animals, like cows and camels, on the other hand, count as seven shares.
For both Qurban and Aqiqah, the sacrifice can be male or female, so long as they are healthy and free from defects. The sacrificed livestock must have also reached a specific minimum age. Goats and sheep must be at least one year old, cows two years old, and camels five years old.
How should the Qurban and Aqiqah meat be distributed?
Meat from Qurban should be distributed raw and divided into three parts. One-third goes to the one performing the Qurban, another third to family and friends, and the last third to the less fortunate.
This sharing of meat is to give thanks to Allah (SWT) and share these blessings with those who live in situations where eating meat is often an unaffordable luxury. Thus, Qurban provides an annual opportunity for the poor and needy to enjoy meat. Especially, if they are unable to have them at other times of the year.
For Aqiqah, it is permissible to eat the meat from it and feed relatives, friends and the poor. While it can given raw, it is sunnah to cook it before giving it to others. Aisha (RA) said, concerning the meat of the Aqiqah that, “It should be cut into pieces, cooked, eaten and also distributed.” (Narrated by Ibn Abi Shaybah in Al-Musannaf).
As such, an Aqiqah ceremony becomes a celebration where the meat from the sacrificed animal is cooked and shared with family, friends and members of the community who are in need.
Summary of differences
In conclusion, while they share some similarities, Qurban and Aqiqah are two distinct acts of worship.
Qurban is done on the three or four days of Eid al-Adha in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)’s sacrifice. It is also best to distribute it raw, and you give it as many times each year during the Qurban period as you wish.
Aqiqah, however, is done seven days after a child’s birth, as per Sunnah, and is only done once in their lifetime. It is also sunnah to sacrifice goat or sheep for Aqiqah and to cook the meat before distributing it.
In the 10 blessed days of Dhul Hijjah, do not forget to purchase your Qurban in time for Eid Al-Adha!
This Dhul Hijjah, Share Your Blessings
Help the world’s most vulnerable families enjoy their Eid when you give Qurban with Islamic Relief.
Giving Qurban is a sacred duty given by Allah (SWT). Every year, during Eid Al-Adha in Dhul Hijjah, Muslims worldwide engage in this important act of worship. One that reflects on Prophet Ibrahim (AS)’s devotion to Allah (SWT) and his ultimate sacrifice.
What is Qurban?
Qurban (also known as Qurbani or Udhiyah) means sacrifice. It refers to the slaughtering of an animal – typically a sheep, goat, camel or cow – for the sake of Allah (SWT), during the days of sacrifice.
“That they may witness benefits for themselves and mention the name of Allah on known days over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals. So eat of them and feed the miserable and poor.“
Quran 22:28
The ritual commemorates Prophet Ibrahim (AS)’s willingness to sacrifice his beloved son, Ismail (AS), for the sake of Allah (SWT), and both their steadfastness in carrying out this order from the Creator. Their story reminds us to trust in Allah (SWT) and know that He will help us overcome our hardships.
“Then when the boy reached the age to work with him, Ibrahimsaid, “O my dear son! I have seen in a dream that I ˹must˺ sacrifice you. So tell me what you think. He replied, “O my dear father! Do as you are commanded. Allah willing, you will find me steadfast.”
Then when they submitted ˹to Allah’s Will˺, and Ibrahimlaid him on the side of his forehead ˹for sacrifice˺, we called out to him, “O Ibrahim! You have already fulfilled the vision.”
Indeed, this is how We reward the good-doers. That was truly a revealing test. And We ransomed his son with a great sacrifice, and blessed Ibrahim ˹with honourable mention˺ among later generations: “Peace be upon Ibrahim.”
Quran 37:102-109
Qurban is usually carried out after Eid prayer, on the first day of Eid Al-Adha. But it can also be performed on 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhul Hijjah. Once the sacrifice is completed, the animal meat is then divided into three equal portions. One-third is shared with the needy, one-third is distributed to relatives and neighbours, and the remainder is kept for one’s own family.
Eid al-Adha 2024 will fall on Sunday, 16 June, 2024, depending on the moon sighting. It takes place in the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar, Dhul Hijjah.
What are rules of Qurban?
Who needs to give Qurbani? When do we offer our sacrifice? Are there any other things we need to take into consideration?
Worry not! We’ve put together everything you need to know about this sacred sacrifice.
Qurban Rule #1: Sacrifice is a sacred duty
Giving Qurban (Qurbani or Udhiyah) is an important act of worship. Every sane, adult Muslim and has wealth in excess to their needs is highly urged to give Qurban. Normally those who are eligible to pay Zakat also should give Qurban.
In the Hanafi school of thought, Qurban is obligatory for every sane Muslim of mature age (who has reached puberty) who is not travelling and owns wealth which is beyond their needs, equal to (or more than) the current level of nisab (87.48 grams of gold or 612.35 grams of silver).
Qurban Rule #2: Your sacrifice must be given on time
It is best to purchase your Qurban as early as possible. This is because it is better to carry out the sacrifice immediately after the Eid prayer. This is the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). His first meal on the day of Eid was also meat from the sacrifice, the third given to one’s family.
However, if one is unable to pay for Qurban before Eid, payments can be made right up until the end of the third day (13th of Dhul-Hijjah) before Maghrib salah.
At Islamic Relief, we purchase the animals to be slaughtered in advance based on forecasted quotas. Hence if you give a Qurban on any of these days, the Qurban will be carried out in time. We aim to implement all Qurbans over three days (10th to 12th Dhul Hijjah).*
*There is a difference of opinion amongst the scholars as to whether Qurbans can be done over three or four days. To respect this difference of opinion, Islamic Relief strives to perform Qurbans in three days. We only extend into the fourth day in localities where this is religiously accepted by the local Muslim population. – and if there is an operational need for this extra day.
Qurban Rule #3: Offering a sacrifice comes with restrictions
For those who want to offer a sacrifice, it’s recommended that once the new moon of Dhul Hijjah appears (i.e. on the 1st of Dhul Hijjah), one does not remove anything from his hair, nails or skin until the sacrifice has been offered. This is because the Prophet ﷺ said:
“When you see the new moon of Dhu’l-Hijjah, if any one of you wants to offer a sacrifice, let him not remove anything from his hair or nails until he has offered his sacrifice.”
Sahih Muslim
Why donate your Qurban to Islamic Relief?
When you donate your Qurban to Islamic Relief, we prioritise providing meat to the most vulnerable families around the world.
Our international teams work hard to get your donation to the most hard to reach regions and conflict-affected areas, including Sudan, Afghanistan and more. Where we cannot perform Qurban, we still provide meat packs and food packs to our brothers and sisters in need worldwide, including in Gaza.
Typically, meat is sourced locally in order to support the local economy and distributed fresh, though, in difficult situations like conflict zones, we may send frozen meat so it can arrive to our recipients in good condition. Each Qurban feeds a family of approximately 4-8 people.
All logistics—from sacrifice to transportation—are handled in accordance with Islamic principles, and with the best hygienic practices possible. When you give Qurban with Islamic Relief, we considered it our Amanah. To deliver it with Ihsan and with the highest standards of compliance.
This Dhul Hijjah, Share Your Blessings
Help the world’s most vulnerable families enjoy their Eid when you give Qurban with Islamic Relief.
What’s one of the best ways to make sure we stay safe during Hajj and Umrah? On these journeys of a lifetime, let us seek guidance from Allah (SWT) with sincere Duas specific to travelling and these two pligrimages.
Each year, millions of Muslims from around the world travel to Makkah in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam.
A pilgrimage that every adult Muslim, who is financially, physically and spiritually able, must make at leasts once in their lifetime, it takes place between the 8th and 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah, the twelve final month of the Islamic Calendar.
However, this period is not the only time Muslims travel to Makkah. Umrah, the voluntary pilgrimage, refers to the journey to Makkah taken at any time of the year outside of the Hajj period.
For both Umrah and Hajj, Allah (SWT) offers believers many rewards for completing them successfully. Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“(The performance of) `Umrah is an expiation for the sins committed (between it and the previous one). And the reward of Hajj Mabrur (the one accepted by Allah) is nothing except Paradise.”
Sahih Al-Bukhari
Hajj and Umrah are incredibly spiritual journeys that we make in our lifetimes. As many of us will be travelling long distances when we go on these journeys, it’s important make sincere dua to Allah (SWT) to keep us safe during this time.
Here are 5 essential duas you can say while on Hajj and Umrah.
Dua for travelling
Bismillah, tawakkaltu ‘alallah, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah. بِسْمِ اللَّهِ تَوَكَّلْتُ عَلَى اللَّهِ لاَ حَوْلَ وَلاَ قُوَّةَ إِلاَّ بِاللَّهِ “I begin with the Name of Allah; I trust in Allah; there is no altering of conditions but by the Power of Allah.”
Bismillah, walhamdulillah. Subhanal-ladzi sakh-khara lana hadza wa ma kunna lahu muqrinin. Wa inna ila Rabbina lamun-qalibun. بِسْـمِ اللهِ وَالْحَمْـدُ لله، سُبْحَانَ الذي سَخَّرَ لَنَا هذا، وَما كُنَّا له مُقْرِنِينَ، وإنَّا إلى رَبِّنَا لَمُنْقَلِبُونَ “In the name of Allah and all praise is for Allah. How perfect He is, the One Who has placed this (transport) at our service and we ourselves would not have been capable of that, and to our Lord is our final destiny.”
A’udzu bikalimatillahit-tammati min sharri ma khalaq. أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّةِ مِنْ شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ “I seek refuge in Allah’s perfect words from every evil (that has been created).”
Talbiyah Dua (intention to start worship) for Hajj or Umrah
Labbayka Allāhumma labbayk. Labbayk lā shareeka laka labbayk. Inna al-ḥamda, wa n-‘imata, Laka wal mulk. Lā shareeka lak. لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، انَّالْحَمْدَ، وَالنِّعْمَةَ، لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ، لا شَرِيكَ لَكَ “Here I am, O Allah, here I am, here I am. You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise and blessings are Yours, and all sovereignty. You have no partner.”
Don’t forget to make lots of Dua’s during Hajj and Umrah, asking Allah (SWT) for forgiveness. Don’t forget to include your friends, relatives, neighbours as well as the wider Ummah in your Dua during these spiritual journeys.
During these first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, make sure to make the most of it! Reap the rewards of this blessed time by doing as much good as you can. Give yourZakat if you haven’t already. Share blessings with your Sadaqah. And don’t forget to give your Qurban in time for Eid!
This Dhul Hijjah, Share Your Blessings
Help the world’s most vulnerable families enjoy their Eid when you give Qurban with Islamic Relief.
Amid the escalating assault on Gaza, especially with news of Israeli forces intensifying bombings on Rafah, how is Islamic Relief delivering aid in Gaza?
This current update (up to date as of May 27, 2024) provides clarity on how our teams can continue delivering aid inside Gaza at the moment. This includes how Islamic Relief undertakes the delivery of aid and what type of aid we distribute.
Note: This update relates to our current initiatives. It does not refer to the initiatives that we have completed.
Israeli forces continue to step up military strikes on Gaza. Planes are bombing targets in Rafah, despite rulings from the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordering Israel to halt its military assault on the city.
Rafah, being located on Gaza’s southern edge, has also been the main route for aid. It has been subjected to numerous border crossing closings, which occur frequently and without warning.
Despite the increasing dangers of delivering aid in Gaza, Islamic Relief remains committed to supporting the people, to prevent further suffering in this escalating, dire humanitarian crisis.
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.
Photo: Islamic Relief providing portable toilets within Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip.
Our team is active in middle and southern Gaza. Currently, Islamic Relief is focusing on supporting orphan families, constructing WASH facilities and distributing food and multi-purpose cash grants. Since October 7th, 2023, we have delivered water, medicine and 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 four current general concerns have emerged.
The Closing of Border Crossings
The first concern is that the border crossings are closed. It is important to understand that there is no set pattern for when the border crossings open and close. One day Rafah might be closed. Then, two days later, no crossings are open. Then, two days after that, Kerem Shalom is closed but Rafah is open. News media often struggles to keep up and news on crossings is usually delayed.
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. There is also some cash available. However, everything is very expensive due to the scarcity. This is where the multi-purpose cash grants Islamic Relief provides can help, as they allow families to purchase the supplies they need, without leaving them with unnecessary items.
How Does Anything Get into Gaza?
The third concern is that nothing is getting into Gaza. While the trucks are not delivering nearly enough, some deliveries are happening. UN-associated trucks, like the World Food Program (WFP) and UNICEF, do have priority and the greatest level of protection and are getting in. We have heard stories of WFP trucks being turned back but that is not all the WFP trucks.
As Islamic Relief, we have had some deliveries, but our trucks are not as regularly allowed through as the UN trucks. Fortunately, Islamic Relief Australia has an established partnership with UNICEF Australia and our teams have been able to ensure the delivery of more aid through this partnership.
Where Does Islamic Relief Operate in Gaza?
The last concern relates to where within Gaza Islamic Relief is working. We had to move south due to the bombing in the North. Currently, our teams are mainly working in what is called Middle Gaza and southern Gaza (where Rafah and Khan Younis are).
Photo: Islamic Relief providing clean water to needy residents in the Middle Area.
We are still not working in the North due to the conditions there. It is reasonable to consider the entire Gaza to be a war zone, with the possibility that intense fighting will break out anywhere.
Blockade Update
On Sunday, May 26, 2024, Israel allowed about 200 aid trucks into Gaza through Kerem Shalom at the south-eastern edge of the Palestinian enclave, bypassing the main Rafah crossing that has been blocked for weeks.
According to an official from the Egyptian Red Crescent, another 200 trucks of aid, as well as four fuel trucks, were expected to enter the following day through the Kerem Shalom crossing.
The border crossings seem to open and close without warning and reasoning, and the number of trucks to be let through seems arbitrary. All of this means that it is impossible to predict what aid will be coming in. However, aid is getting in, which is why organisations still need ongoing support from donors.
Our Current Response
Aid Delivery by IR Palestine
We are active right now! Below is the update of activities implemented on 26 May 2024. We are currently focusing on food delivery, distributing multi-purpose cash grants and constructing WASH facilities.
IR Partners (our emergency response)
Provided 30,963 RTE meals in North Gaza for the displaced persons and 27,600 in Khan Younis.
Distributed vegetable packs to 1,950 HH in three shelters in Khan Younis
A total of six single WASH facilities (M/F) were installed. These facilities will meet the hygiene needs of 200 HHs in three shelters in Khan Younis.
Partnership with the World Food Programme (WFP)
Provided a total of 91,800 hot meals in Khan Younis, 6,000 in Rafah, and 71,100 in the Middle area to displaced people.
Provided lipid-based nutrient supplement “LNS” for (667 Pregnant/Breastfeeding and 1,932 Children) in Khan Younis and the Middle area.
Overall, we have delivered 17,005,946 hot meals and provided 300,389 households with ready-to-eat meals since October 2023.
Photo: Islamic Relief, with World Food Program (WFP), delivering hot meals in Gaza.
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 are extremely courageous and committed and are doing everything in their control 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 hot meals (we are WFPs biggest partner), 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 everyone is probably aware, it is difficult to get aid into Gaza. However, our teams on the ground are working with various partners, international and local, which allows us to access aid for distribution. Together, we have been able to deliver 17,005,946 hot meals and provide 300,389 households with ready-to-eat meals since October 2023. Islamic Relief is also constructing WASH facilities in Gaza, giving civilians access to clean water, hygiene and sanitation amid the dire situation.
We will continue doing everything in our power to alleviate the suffering of our brothers and sisters in Gaza. Islamic Relief is committed to the rebuilding and reconstruction of Gaza, currently and in the long term. We are committed to assisting and supporting our team, by making sure they have the resources to carry on. And it is our donors who make it possible for us to continue our efforts in Gaza, as their support helps us reach even more people in need, as swiftly as possible.
Asif Sana, Director of Programs and Institutional Relations
In the ongoing crisis, Gaza needs your help
Help us provide urgent medical supplies, food and other crucial, life-saving aid now to families in need by giving with Islamic Relief.
