Aqiqah: Welcoming a Child into the Muslim Community
Celebrate the joyous occasion of a newborn with Aqiqah – an act of gratitude and charity in Islam. Delve into the significance of this beautiful Sunnah, which not only welcomes the child but also reinforces ties within the community.
Understanding Aqiqah: A Blend of Gratitude and Charity
Aqiqah is performed as an expression of parents’ gratitude for the gift of a child. This ritual, rooted in Islamic tradition, involves the sacrifice of livestock and distribution of meat among family, friends, and the needy, symbolising the child’s introduction to the community.
The Rituals and Traditions of Aqiqah
Traditionally, Aqiqah is carried out on the seventh day after a child’s birth. It involves specific rituals like naming the child, shaving their head, and distributing meat from the sacrificed animals. These acts are accompanied by prayers for the child’s well-being and righteousness.
AQIQAH
Aqiqah: A Tradition of Faith and 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.
Those who believe in Allah and the Last Day, establish regular prayers, pay their zakat, and fear none (but for Allah) will visit and preserve Allah’s mosques.
At United Muslims, we ensure your Aqiqah not only celebrates your child’s introduction to the Islamic community but also embodies the spirit of giving, support, and empathy prescribed by our faith.
Support United Muslims: Perform your Aqiqah with us with 100% of your donations directly funding our initiatives.
Since its founding, United Muslims has ensured every donation goes to its projects, covering any credit card fees. For example, if a £100 donation drops to £97 due to fees, the organisation adds £3. This strict separation of project and operational funds ensures full public donation utilisation.
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Managing Your Aqiqah Contributions
Conduct your Aqiqah confidently, adhering to the Sunnah of Muhammad (PBUH), with the assurance that we are committed to fulfilling this important Islamic duty on your behalf.
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Aqiqah FAQs
What is Aqiqah?
Aqiqah is an Islamic tradition of sacrificing animals following the birth of a child as a form of gratitude towards Allah.
When should Aqiqah be performed?
Ideally, Aqiqah should be carried out on the seventh day after a child’s birth, but it can be done later if needed.
How many animals are required for Aqiqah?
For a boy, two animals (usually goats or sheep) are sacrificed, and for a girl, one.
Who can perform Aqiqah?
Any Muslim can perform Aqiqah. It is typically the responsibility of the child’s parents or guardians.
Can Aqiqah be done for an adult if it was not done during their infancy?
Yes, Aqiqah can be performed at any age if it was not done after birth.
Is Aqiqah mandatory?
Aqiqah is considered Sunnah, highly recommended, but not obligatory.
What should be done with the meat from Aqiqah?
The meat should be divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the needy.
Can I donate the Aqiqah meat instead of distributing it myself?
Yes, you can delegate a charity organisation to distribute the Aqiqah meat on your behalf.
What if I cannot afford to perform Aqiqah?
Aqiqah is subject to one’s financial ability; if you cannot afford it, you are not obligated to perform it.
How is the Aqiqah ceremony conducted?
The Aqiqah ceremony typically involves animal slaughter, dedicating prayers for the newborn, followed by meat distribution among loved ones and the needy, embodying Islamic generosity. Families often cook and share meals, announcing the baby’s name and performing the traditional head shaving during this festive gathering.
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