Learn More: Aqeeqah

So, what is Aqeeqah? Aqeeqah is the Sunnah practice of sacrificing an animal to celebrate the birth of a child, expressing gratitude to Allah (SWT) for the blessing of new life and seeking His protection for the newborn. The word itself comes from an Arabic root meaning "to cut," originally referring to the baby's hair, which is traditionally shaved as part of the same celebration.

Unlike Qurbani, Aqeeqah is not tied to a specific date on the Islamic calendar -- it can be performed whenever a family is ready, which is why there is no seasonal ordering window for it on this site.

When should Aqeeqah be performed?
Aqeeqah is traditionally performed on the seventh day after a child's birth. If that isn't possible, the fourteenth or twenty-first day is the next preference. Many scholars agree that Aqeeqah can still be performed at any later point, up until the child reaches adulthood, so there is no need to worry if the traditional timing has already passed.

How many animals are sacrificed for Aqeeqah?
The well-known practice, based on the guidance of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is two goats or sheep for a boy and one goat or sheep for a girl. Some families choose to sacrifice a single animal regardless, if that is what they are able to give -- Aqeeqah is a Sunnah, not an obligation, so there is no sin in doing less than the full recommended amount.

What happens to the Aqeeqah meat?
As with Qurbani, the meat from an Aqeeqah sacrifice is typically shared: a portion for the family, a portion for friends and relatives, and a portion given in charity to those in need. Many families arrange for the sacrifice to be performed and distributed directly to families in need overseas, especially when performing Aqeeqah from abroad.

Why do we perform Aqeeqah?
Aqeeqah is a way of thanking Allah (SWT) for a new child, asking for the child's protection and wellbeing, and including the wider community -- especially the less fortunate -- in the joy of a new birth.