What Is the Ruling on Aqiqah and How Many Animals Should Be Sacrificed?
Dr. Zainab El Saeed, Secretary of Fatwa at Egypt’s Dar Al-Ifta, answered a question about the Islamic ruling on Aqiqah and the number of sacrificial animals recommended for boys and girls, explaining the related rulings and the proper method of distributing the meat according to the Prophetic Sunnah.
She confirmed that Aqiqah is one of the recommended Sunnah practices associated with the birth of a child and is an expression of gratitude to Allah for the blessing of children.
The Islamic Ruling on Aqiqah
Dr. Zainab El Saeed explained that it is authentically reported that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) offered one ram each as Aqiqah for Al-Hasan and Al-Husayn (may Allah be pleased with them). Therefore, one sacrificial animal is sufficient for both a baby boy and a baby girl.
She added that some Islamic scholars hold the opinion that it is preferable to sacrifice two sheep for a boy and one sheep for a girl. However, both opinions are considered valid, and the official fatwa adopted by Dar Al-Ifta is that one sheep is sufficient for a boy and one sheep for a girl.
How Should the Aqiqah Be Distributed?
Regarding the distribution of the Aqiqah, the Secretary of Fatwa explained that it is recommended—but not obligatory—to distribute it in the same manner as the Udhiyah (Eid sacrifice).
The recommended distribution includes:
- The family of the child eating a portion of it.
- Giving a portion as gifts to relatives and friends.
- Donating a portion to the poor and those in need.
She emphasized that the person offering the Aqiqah may eat from it, give some away as gifts, and donate part of it in charity, thereby combining different forms of goodness.
Must the Aqiqah Be Divided Into Three Equal Parts?
Dr. Zainab El Saeed explained that dividing the Aqiqah into three portions is not obligatory but merely recommended.
She added that if the sacrificial animal is not sufficient to divide in this manner, there is no hardship, because the primary objective is to fulfill the Sunnah of Aqiqah. Once the sacrifice is performed, the Sunnah has been fulfilled.
The Wisdom Behind the Legislation of Aqiqah
The Secretary of Fatwa pointed out that one of the greatest purposes of Aqiqah is expressing gratitude to Allah Almighty for the blessing of a newborn child.
For this reason, it is recommended to perform the Aqiqah on the seventh day after the child's birth, as the child has completed the first stage of life.
She explained that human life progresses through stages—weeks, months, and years—making the seventh day a suitable occasion to thank Allah for this blessing.
Aqiqah Is a Sunnah That Expresses Gratitude for the Blessing of a Child
Dr. Zainab El Saeed emphasized that Aqiqah reflects the values of solidarity and celebrating the birth of a child. It also provides an opportunity to feed others and share blessings with relatives and those in need.
She concluded by stating that Aqiqah remains one of the recommended Sunnah practices that Muslims are encouraged to observe in following the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and expressing gratitude to Allah for His countless blessings.
What is the Islamic ruling on Aqiqah?
Aqiqah is a recommended Sunnah performed for a newborn child as an expression of gratitude to Allah for the blessing of children.
How many animals should be sacrificed for a boy and a girl?
One sheep is sufficient for both a boy and a girl, although some scholars recommend sacrificing two sheep for a boy.
How should the Aqiqah be distributed?
It is recommended that the family eat part of it, give some to relatives and friends, and donate a portion to the poor.
Is dividing the Aqiqah into three parts obligatory?
No. Dividing it into three portions is recommended but not obligatory.
When is it recommended to perform the Aqiqah?
It is recommended to perform the Aqiqah on the seventh day after the birth of the child.
