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When Can You Cut Your Hair on Eid ul Adha? Guidelines for Observing Sacrifice Rituals

When Can You Cut Your Hair on Eid ul Adha?

The question of when you can cut your hair on Eid ul Adha is significant, especially for those who plan to offer a sacrifice. Eid ul Adha, one of the most important Islamic holidays, comes with specific guidelines, particularly for those participating in Qurbani (sacrifice).

Can You Cut Your Hair Before Eid ul Adha?

If you intend to offer a sacrifice on Eid ul Adha, Islamic teachings advise that you should not cut your hair or nails from the first day of Dhul Hijjah until after the sacrifice is made. This act of refraining is a symbolic gesture of respect and devotion to Allah.

Allah says in the Holy Quran:

“And complete the Hajj and ‘umrah for Allah. But if you are prevented, then [offer] what can be obtained with ease of sacrificial animals. & do not shave your heads until the sacrificial animal has reached its place of slaughter…” (Al-Baqarah 2:196)

This verse underscores the significance of adhering to the ritual purity and following the guidance provided during this sacred period.

The Deeper Meaning of Sacrifice

The act of sacrifice during Eid ul Adha is not just a ritual; it is an expression of faith and closeness to Allah. The Arabic word for sacrifice, “Qurbani,” is derived from “Qurb,” meaning “nearness.” The purpose of this ritual is to bring believers closer to Allah.

In the Quran, we find the story of Adam’s two sons, where only the sacrifice of the righteous one was accepted:

“Indeed, Allah only accepts from the righteous [who fear Him].” (Al-Ma’idah 5:27)

The Prophet’s Teachings on Sacrifice

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of Qurbani in the days leading up to Eid:

“There is no dearer deed of Ibn Adam in the days of Qurbani than flowing the blood (doing Qurbani).” (Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah)

Anas bin Malik narrated that the Prophet said:

“Whoever slaughtered the sacrifice before the prayer, he just slaughtered it for himself, and whoever slaughtered it after the prayer, he slaughtered it at the right time and followed the tradition of the Muslims.” (Bukhari 68/454)

These hadiths highlight the significance of performing the sacrifice at the correct time and with the right intentions.

Eid al-Adha: A Time of Reflection and Celebration

Eid al-Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is a time for Muslims to commemorate the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to Allah’s command. This story teaches us about faith, submission, and the importance of sacrifice in the path of righteousness.

Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha by sacrificing animals, usually sheep, goats, camels, or cows. The meat is then distributed among family, friends, and those in need, reinforcing the values of charity and community.

Related Questions:

  • What is the significance of Dhul Hijjah in Islam?
  • How to perform Qurbani according to Islamic teachings?
  • What are the rules for distributing Qurbani meat?

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