Does One Udhiya (Sacrifice) Cover All Members of the Household? Al-Azhar Explains
Al-Azhar clarifies whether one sacrificial animal is sufficient for the entire household, with scholarly opinions and evidence from the Sunnah
Ruling on sacrificing for the whole household
Al-Azhar Global Fatwa Center explained that one sacrifice (Udhiya) from sheep or goats is sufficient for the person offering it and all members of their household, regardless of their number.
This ruling is based on authentic narrations from the Prophet ﷺ, where a single sheep was offered on behalf of a man and his family.
Does one sheep cover the entire family?
Yes, one Udhiya is sufficient for:
- The head of the household
- The spouse and children
- Everyone under the same family support
This is considered a sharing in reward, not multiple separate sacrifices.
Scholarly opinion
The majority of scholars from:
- Shafi’i school
- Maliki school
- Hanbali school
agree that:
- One sacrifice is valid for the individual
- The reward may include their household
- One animal is sufficient for all
Conditions for sharing in reward
It is permissible to include family members in reward if:
- The intention is made at the time of slaughter
- They are part of the household or dependents
- Or relatives, even without financial responsibility
There is no fixed limit on the number of participants in reward.
Evidence from the Sunnah
The Prophet ﷺ said when sacrificing:
This shows the broad mercy and inclusion in reward for acts of worship.
Summary
- One Udhiya is sufficient for the entire household
- Reward can be shared with many people
- Intention of the sacrificer is what matters
FAQ
Is one sheep enough for the whole family?
Yes, one sacrifice is sufficient for all household members.
Is there a limit to how many people can share?
No fixed limit exists for reward sharing.
Can others outside the household be included?
Yes, in reward with intention.
Do each family member need a separate sacrifice?
No, one is enough for everyone.
What is the evidence?
Practices and sayings of the Prophet ﷺ confirming shared reward.
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