Aqiqah (Arabic: عقيقة) in Islam refers to the practice of sacrificing an animal as a form of gratitude to Allah upon the birth of a child. It is a recommended Sunnah serving as an expression of joy and thankfulness for the blessing of a new life. Aqiqah involves sharing the sacrificed meat with family, friends, and the less fortunate, reinforcing communal bonds and ensuring inclusivity in the celebration.
Meaning of Aqiqah
The term Aqiqah is derived from the Arabic root ʿ-q-q (ع-ق-ق), which originally means “to cut.” In Islamic terminology, it refers to the sacrifice performed as part of the child’s introduction into the community, symbolizing the “cutting” of the child’s ties to worldly impurities.
Purpose and Significance of Aqiqah
- Expression of Gratitude:
- Aqiqah is performed to thank Allah for the gift of a child and seek His blessings for the child’s future.
- A Symbol of Dedication:
- It represents the parents’ devotion to raising the child in accordance with Islamic principles.
- Sharing Joy:
- The distribution of meat fosters a sense of community and ensures that the celebration is inclusive, particularly for the less fortunate.
- Spiritual Protection:
- Aqiqah is also seen as a means of invoking Allah’s protection and blessings for the newborn.
Timing of Aqiqah
The recommended time for performing Aqiqah is on the seventh day after the child’s birth. If it cannot be performed on that day, it may be done later, when the parents are able.
How Aqiqah Is Performed
- Sacrifice of Animals:
- Typically, one or two sheep or goats are sacrificed:
- For a boy: Two animals are recommended.
- For a girl: One animal is recommended.
- The animals must meet the same criteria as those for Qurbani (sacrifice during Eid al-Adha), such as being healthy and free of defects.
- Typically, one or two sheep or goats are sacrificed:
- Shaving the Child’s Head:
- On the same day, it is customary to shave the baby’s head as part of the ritual. The hair is weighed, and an equivalent amount in silver or its monetary value is given as charity.
- Naming the Child:
- Aqiqah is often combined with the naming of the child, choosing a name with a positive and meaningful significance in Islam.
- Distribution of Meat:
- The meat of the sacrifice is divided into three portions:
- One-third for the family.
- One-third for relatives and friends.
- One-third for the poor and needy.
- The meat of the sacrifice is divided into three portions:
Importance of Aqiqah
- Strengthening Community Bonds:
- By sharing the sacrificial meat, families spread joy and strengthen ties within their community.
- Promoting Charity:
- Aqiqah emphasizes the importance of including the less fortunate in celebrations, fostering compassion and generosity.
- Acknowledgment of Allah’s Blessings:
- It serves as a reminder to be grateful for Allah’s gift of children and the responsibility that comes with parenthood.
Conclusion
Aqiqah is a meaningful Islamic tradition that celebrates the birth of a child with gratitude, joy, and acts of charity. By performing Aqiqah, parents not only express their thankfulness to Allah but also uphold the values of sharing, compassion, and community in Islam. It is a beautiful way to introduce the newborn into the faith and society, ensuring that the blessings of the occasion are felt by all.
Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.