Can Udhiya and Aqeeqah Be Combined in One Sacrifice? Dar Al-Ifta Explains

Learn whether Udhiya and Aqeeqah can be combined in one sacrifice according to Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta, and the ruling on sacrificing younger animals.

  Tue , May 19 2026 / 03:09 PM Updated At: 2026-05-19 15:09:50

As Eid al-Adha approaches, a common question arises: is it permissible to combine the intention of Udhiya (Eid sacrifice) and Aqeeqah (newborn sacrifice) in one animal?

This question becomes especially relevant for those blessed with a newborn around the time of Eid.

In this article, we present the ruling based on Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta, along with the legal reasoning behind it.


Ruling on Combining Udhiya and Aqeeqah

Permissibility of Combining Both Intentions

Dar Al-Ifta confirmed that:

  • It is permissible to combine Udhiya and Aqeeqah in one sacrifice
  • Both intentions are fulfilled with a single act
  • The person receives the reward for both acts of worship

This applies particularly when:

  • The time of Aqeeqah coincides with Eid al-Adha days

  •  

What Is the Legal Basis for This Ruling?

Achieving the Purpose of Sacrifice

The Fatwa Secretary explained that:

  • The main objective of Udhiyah is the act of slaughtering as an act of nearness to Allah.

  • This act is prescribed during specific days

These days include:

  • The Day of Sacrifice (first day of Eid)
  • The three days of Tashreeq

Thus, performing the sacrifice during these days fulfills the intended purpose.


Analogy Used to Support the Ruling

Comparison with Prayer

The ruling is clarified through a legal analogy:

  • A person who enters the mosque and performs an obligatory or regular Sunnah prayer
  • It suffices in place of Tahiyyat al-Masjid

Similarly:

  • One sacrifice with dual intention fulfills both purposes



Is there scholarly disagreement?

Presence of Different Opinions

This issue:

  • Has been discussed by scholars
  • Includes multiple opinions

However:

  • Dar Al-Ifta supports permissibility
  • Based on achieving the objectives of Sharia

Ruling on Sacrificing a Young but Well-Fed Animal

Age vs. Meat Quantity

Dar Al-Ifta explained that:

  • The original principle is to adhere to the prescribed age.

  • But consideration is given to benefit and meat quality

When Is It Permissible?

It is allowed if:

  • The animal is younger than the standard age
  • But it has abundant and good-quality meat.

Especially today due to:

  • Modern feeding methods
  • Faster animal growth

Objectives of Sharia in Sacrifice

Supporting the Needy

Dar Al-Ifta emphasized that:

  • The goal of Udhiya is to benefit the poor
  • Provide them with meat during Eid

Therefore:

  • What brings greater benefit is preferred
  • In terms of quantity and quality

Final Conclusion

It is permissible to combine Udhiya and Aqeeqah in one sacrifice according to Dar Al-Ifta. It is also allowed to sacrifice a younger animal if it provides greater benefit, aligning with the objectives of Islamic law.


FAQ

Can Udhiya and Aqeeqah be combined?

Yes, both can be fulfilled with one sacrifice.

When is this combination appropriate?

When a newborn’s Aqeeqah coincides with Eid al-Adha.

Is a specific age required for sacrifice?

Yes in principle, but exceptions are allowed if the animal is well-fed.

What is the main purpose of Udhiya?

To draw closer to Allah and benefit the poor.

Is this ruling unanimously agreed upon?

There are different opinions, but Dar Al-Ifta permits it.

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