A Common Mistake in Aqeeqah That Wastes Its Reward: Know the Correct Islamic Rulings
Aqeeqah is a Sunnah act of gratitude for a newborn, yet some common mistakes—like sacrificing a young calf—may nullify its reward.
Aqeeqah is one of Islam’s confirmed Sunnah acts, symbolizing gratitude and joy for the blessing of a child. It is not merely a ritual slaughter, but an act of worship governed by clear conditions that ensure its acceptance and reward.
A common question arises when families sacrifice a young calf instead of a sheep. Sheikh Abu Bakr Al-Shafi’i, a scholar from Al-Azhar, explains that this is a common error, as the conditions for Aqeeqah are the same as for Udhiya (Eid sacrifice).
He clarified that the calf must be at least two years old if it belongs to cattle or buffalo, or one year old if it’s a goat or sheep. According to the Prophet’s Sunnah, two sheep are to be slaughtered for a boy and one for a girl, though one sheep for a boy is acceptable in cases of financial hardship.
The meat may be distributed raw or cooked, and it is permissible to invite others to share in the meal.
Dr. Ahmed Omar Hashem, a member of Al-Azhar’s Senior Scholars, added that it is permissible to sacrifice a cow or camel as Aqeeqah for up to seven individuals, as the rulings are similar to those of Udhiya. He emphasized that Aqeeqah is not limited to a specific time; anyone who can afford it may perform it later to gain its spiritual reward.
Similarly, Sheikh Awida Othman, Director of Oral Fatwa at Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta, stated that it is permissible to use a cow instead of a sheep, provided it is mature, meaning it has completed two years or weighs at least 350 kilograms.
He noted that the purpose of these rulings is to ensure adequate meat for distribution, fulfilling the social and spiritual objectives of Aqeeqah.
In Summary:
Aqeeqah is an act of worship and gratitude, not a mere tradition. The safest and most complete form is to follow the Prophetic Sunnah by slaughtering a sheep, though a cow or calf may suffice if it meets the Islamic conditions. Its true essence lies in thankfulness to Allah and sharing goodness with the needy.
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