The birth of a child is one of the greatest blessings in Islam. Along with joy and celebration, Islam encourages parents to show gratitude to Allah through a beautiful Sunnah known as Aqiqah.
This guide explains what Aqiqah is, why it is performed, and how Muslim families today can fulfil it correctly.
Select an element to maximize. Press ESC to cancel.What Is Aqiqah in Islam?
In Islam, Aqiqah refers to the sacrifice of livestock, such as a goat or sheep, offered on behalf of a newborn child. It is a Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and is usually performed shortly after the birth of a baby.
The purpose of Aqiqah is to thank Allah for the gift of life, seek blessings and protection for the child, and share happiness with family, friends, and the wider community. A significant part of Aqiqah is the distribution of meat to the poor and needy, ensuring that others share in the joy of the occasion.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Every child mortgaged by his ‘Aqiqah; slaughtering should be done for him on the seventh day, he should be given a name, and his head should be shaved. (Tirmidhi 1522)
When Should Aqiqah Be Performed?
The preferred time to perform Aqiqah is on the seventh day after the birth of the child. On this day, it is also recommended to name the child and shave their head.
If Aqiqah cannot be performed on the seventh day, scholars agree that it may be done later without any sin. Some scholars mention the 14th or 21st day, while others allow Aqiqah to be performed at any time afterwards, even in adulthood if it was missed during childhood.
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Can Aqiqah Be Delayed?
If you aren’t able to perform it within the first three weeks, don’t worry. Most scholars agree that it can be performed at any time before the child reaches puberty. There is no “expiration date” on this act of gratitude.
Some even choose to perform it for themselves as adults if their parents were unable to do it for them.
Islam emphasises that Aqiqah should be a source of joy, not a financial struggle. It is strongly encouraged for those who have the means. However, if a family cannot afford it, there is no spiritual burden or sin upon them.
Aqiqah For A Baby Boy Vs Baby Girl
Islam provides clear guidance on how Aqiqah should be performed for boys and girls.
Aqiqah for a baby boy: The Sunnah is to sacrifice two goats or sheep.
Aqiqah for a baby girl: The Sunnah is to sacrifice one goat or sheep.
Aisha (RA) narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“Slaughter two comparable sheep for a male newborn and one sheep for a female.”
(Tirmidhi)
The difference in the number of animals does not reflect the value of the child. Both acts carry equal spiritual reward and importance.
Rules Of Aqiqah According To Sunnah
To ensure the Aqiqah is valid and rewarding, certain Islamic guidelines should be followed:
The animal must be healthy and free from defects
It must meet the minimum age (atleast 1 year) requirement for slaughter
The sacrifice must be carried out according to halal principles
Two animals are offered for a boy and one for a girl
The meat should be shared, particularly with the poor and needy
It is also recommended to shave the baby’s head and give Sadaqah equal to the weight of the hair in silver.
What Happens to the Aqiqah Meat?
Traditionally, Aqiqah meat is divided and shared. Many scholars mention dividing the meat into three parts:
One part for the family
One part for friends and neighbours
One part for the poor and needy
It is preferable to cook it and share it as a feast, however, it can also be given as raw so they can use it as they wish. This sharing spreads joy, strengthens relationships, and ensures that those less fortunate benefit from the blessing of new life.
At United Muslims, we fulfil this Sunnah by arranging for Aqiqah meals to be distributed to families suffering from hunger in places such as Palestine and other crisis-affected areas.
Prohibitions
It is prohibited to sell any part of the animal (meat, skin, etc.). The butcher cannot be paid with the meat or skin. Avoid turning it into a cultural event without the proper religious intention (niyyah).
The sacrifice must be done in the name of Allah, with the intention for the child.
Can You Donate Aqiqah Online?
As long as the intention is sincere and Islamic guidelines are followed, you can fulfil the Sunnah of Aqiqah when you donate Aqiqah online through a reputable Muslim charity.
Many reliable organisations in the UK perform the sacrifice on your behalf in accordance with Sunnah rules, distribute the meat to those in need (often in poorer regions), and provide confirmation.
This is practical for those who live where organising a local sacrifice is difficult. Moreover, people also want the meat of Aqiaqh to reach vulnerable communities worldwide.
We at United Muslims ensure that your Aqiqah meets Islamic principles and reaches those who need it most, from families in the UK to places around the world in crisis. We work with a 100% donations policy, meaning every pound you give for Aqiqah goes directly towards providing meals and vital support to vulnerable families who rely on this charity.
Why Is Aqiqah Important in Islam?
Aqiqah is important in Islam because it expresses gratitude to Allah, follows the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and strengthens bonds within the Muslim community. It also ensures that the joy of a newborn’s arrival is shared with those who are less fortunate.
Conclusion
Your Aqiqah gift goes far beyond a single day of celebration. The kindness you show through it can make a real, lasting difference to struggling communities.
By choosing to perform your Aqiqah through United Muslims, you’re sharing that blessing with families who need it most around the world.
You can also combine other forms of charity, including Sadaqah, Zakat, or Fidya, to multiply the impact and help people access clean water, education, and other necessities of life, as well as nutritious food.
Donate today and support the mission of United Muslims to empower Muslim communities around the world through education, healthcare, youth development, and social welfare initiatives.
Bringing hope through small acts of kindness—a meal, a helping hand, or a gift can light up a child’s day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for Aqiqah?
The father is generally responsible, but another family member may offer it with permission.
Can Aqiqah be performed for an adult?
Yes. If Aqiqah was not performed during childhood, it may still be offered later in life.
Is Aqiqah compulsory in Islam?
Aqiqah is not compulsory. It is strongly recommended as Sunnah for parents who can afford it. There is no sin if a family is unable to perform Aqiqah due to financial reasons.
Is cooking the meat necessary?
The meat may be distributed raw or cooked, depending on local custom and need.
Can you donate Aqiqah online?
Yes. You can fulfil the Sunnah of Aqiqah by donating Aqiqah online through a reputable Muslim charity that follows Islamic guidelines.
Is it allowed to give Aqiqah meat to the poor in other countries?
Yes. Aqiqah meat may be distributed locally or internationally, including in crisis-affected areas where families are in need.
