Qurbani Meaning: What the Word Truly Signifies in Islam

Each year during Eid ul-Adha, Muslims around the world perform Qurbani—the ritual act of sacrificing an animal in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion.

But beyond the ritual, what does the word Qurbani actually mean? Where does it come from, and what deeper spiritual message does it carry?

In this article, we explore the linguistic root, religious significance, and the spiritual symbolism of Qurbani in Islam.

The Root of the Word “Qurbani”

The word Qurbani is derived from the Arabic root Q-R-B (ق-ر-ب), which relates to:

• Qurb (قُرب) – meaning nearness or closeness

• Qurban (قُرْبَان) – meaning an offering made to gain closeness to Allah

In essence, Qurbani is not merely about the physical act of sacrifice—it is about spiritually drawing closer to Allah through obedience and devotion.

It is the same root used in other familiar Islamic terms:

• Muqarrabīn (المقرّبين): Those who are closest to Allah

• Qurba: A deed done to seek nearness to Allah

The act of Qurbani is a symbol of submission, showing that we are willing to part with something valuable to gain Allah’s pleasure.

Qurbani in the Quran

The Quran states:

“Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you…”
(Surah Al-Hajj, 22:37)

This verse reinforces that Qurbani is not about the animal itself—it’s about your niyyah (intention), your sincerity, and your commitment to submit to Allah’s command.

Just like Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him), who was ready to sacrifice what he loved most, we are asked to make a personal offering with ikhlas (sincerity) and taqwa (God-consciousness).

How the Word Reflects the Spirit of the Act

Qurbani is:

• A reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion

• A lesson in humility and obedience

• A means of strengthening faith and community bonds

• A way to give from what we value most to help those in need

When you perform Qurbani, you symbolically say:
“I am willing to give what I love for the sake of Allah.”

That could be wealth, comfort, time—or in this case, a well-cared-for animal offered in accordance with Islamic law.

Qurbani and the Value of Giving

True Qurbani involves:

• Choosing a healthy and unblemished animal

• Ensuring it meets the age and health requirements

• Making the sacrifice with the right intention

• Distributing the meat fairly—especially to the poor and needy

This turns Qurbani into an act that combines faith, generosity, and social justice.

How ARO Upholds the True Meaning of Qurbani

At the Australian Relief Organisation (ARO), we take the spiritual meaning of Qurbani seriously.
Every donation goes beyond a transaction—it is a trust, an offering made with sincerity.

Our Qurban International Hunger Relief Program ensures:

• Your animal is selected with care and meets all Shariah conditions

• Your Qurbani reaches those who need it most, including refugees, orphans, and vulnerable families

• The entire process—from sacrifice to distribution—is done with respect, transparency, and compassion

For us, it’s not just about meat. It’s about fulfilling a sacred act of worship that connects donors, recipients, and communities around the world in shared faith and love for Allah.

Final Thoughts

The word Qurbani comes from a root that means to come close. And that’s exactly what this act represents: a chance to draw near to Allah by sacrificing something of value for His sake.

This Eid ul-Adha, make your Qurbani an act of true nearness—done with purpose, care, and love.

Donate today through ARO and fulfil your Qurbani with meaning, compassion, and trust. Give Now

Related Project: Qurban