Aqiqah: Welcoming a Child into the Muslim Community

Aqiqah holds profound significance in Islam. It embodies gratitude towards Allah for the blessing of offspring, as reflected in the Hadith: ‘Every child is mortgaged by its Aqiqah, which is slaughtered for it on its seventh day, and it is named on it, and its head is shaved’ (Sunan Abu Dawud).

Performing Aqiqah acts as a purification for the child and a demonstration of the parents’ adherence to Islamic values. The distribution of meat to relatives and the underprivileged aligns with the Islamic principles of charity and solidarity, ensuring that the celebration includes all community members.

The practice not only honours the child but also brings blessings to the family and strengthens community bonds. By sharing this joyous occasion, we reaffirm our commitment to Islamic teachings and the collective welfare of our community.

Aqiqah Services by United Muslims

United Muslims’ Aqiqah service is designed to provide donors with a meaningful way to celebrate a newborn’s arrival while aiding those in dire need. When you entrust us with your Aqiqah, we ensure the ritual is executed impeccably:

• Animal Sacrifice: We perform the sacrifice adhering to Islamic principles — one goat for a girl and two for a boy, symbolising gratitude and obedience to Allah. The timing is recommended within the first seven days post-birth, although it can be performed later.
• Meat Distribution: The essence of Aqiqah lies in sharing joy. We distribute the fresh, raw meat among underprivileged families, particularly in regions stricken by poverty, conflict, or natural disasters, ensuring they partake in the blessings of your celebration.
• Timely Execution: Our commitment is to conduct the Aqiqah and distribute the meat within seven days of receiving your donation, connecting your act of faith directly with the needs of the less fortunate.
• Communal Benefit: The distribution is focused on communities where meat is a rare luxury. The joy of a hearty meal can bring immense relief to families, orphans, and refugees, inspiring prayers for your child’s wellbeing from those touched by your generosity.
• Shaving the Head: In line with the Sunnah, the ritual of shaving the newborn’s head is performed, symbolising purification. The weight of the shaved hair in silver is then donated to the needy, calculated at the current silver rate. This act of giving, based on the hair’s weight, amplifies the charitable impact of your Aqiqah. Currently,  we have calculated that approximately 12g of hair shaved off a newborn equates to 12g of silver i-e £10 per baby.
• Personalised Sadaqah: Beyond the standard procedure, you have the option to increase your charitable contribution, enhancing the Aqiqah’s impact. Every additional penny is a step towards greater reward and societal benefit.
• Gratitude and Prayers: In performing Aqiqah, we express gratitude for Allah’s blessings and seek divine grace for the child’s life. The beneficiaries of your Aqiqah, filled with gratitude, offer prayers in return, creating a cycle of blessings.