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How Sadaqah for Sabeel Lillah Can Help You Find Purpose

When someone gives Qurbani Fi Sabeel Lillah, they are offering the sacrifice with sincerity and devotion, not for show. Often donating the entirety of the meat to the needy rather than keeping any for themselves.  

Qurbani refers to the sacrifice of an animal usually a goat, sheep, cow, or camel during Eid al-Adha, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim's (A.S.) willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah's command. Fi Sabeel Lillah means "in the path of Allah" or "for the sake of Allah." It's used to describe acts done purely for Allah’s pleasure, without seeking any worldly return. It captures both the spiritual essence of sacrifice and its transformative impact on others.

“Indeed, my prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds.” (Qur’an 6:162)

"O you who have believed, do not invalidate your charities with reminders or injury as does the one who spends his wealth to be seen by the people and does not believe in Allah and the Last Day..." Surah Al-Baqarah (2:264). 

"So woe to those who pray – but who are heedless of their prayer – those who make a show [of their deeds]." Surah Al-Ma'un (107:4–6)

"And those who spend of their wealth to be seen by the people and believe not in Allah nor in the Last Day. And whoever takes Satan as an intimate – then what a wretched companion he has." Surah An-Nisa (4:38). 

Narrated by Abu Huraira (RA):

The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

“Allah does not look at your appearance or your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2564).

Aiming to seek Allah’s reward and serve humanity, especially in regions where meat is a rare luxury.  

Qurbani, or Udhiyah, the act of sacrificing an animal during Eid al-Adha for the sake of Allah, goes far beyond the ritual itself — it’s deeply spiritual and can profoundly impact lives in multiple ways, both for the person giving the sacrifice and those receiving it. Here's how it changes lives: 

How Qurbani Fi Sabeel Lillah Strengthens the Relationship with Allah

Qurbani is an act of submission and obedience, reflecting the willingness to sacrifice something valuable purely for the sake of Allah — just as Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was ready to sacrifice his son. It nurtures taqwa (God-consciousness) and helps a person detach from materialism and ego.

“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him.— Surah Al-Hajj 22:37 

Qurbani fi sabeel Lillah—sacrificing for the sake of Allah—deeply nurtures a spiritual connection with Him in several powerful ways. Here's how it strengthens that bond:

1. Obedience to Allah's Command

At its core, Qurbani is an act of pure submission. When you perform Qurbani fi sabeel Lillah, you're following in the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his beloved son out of unwavering obedience. That act alone is a declaration: "Ya Allah, Your command is above everything." Obedience builds trust and love—just like in any relationship. The more you obey Allah sincerely, the more connected you feel to Him. 

2. Letting Go of Attachment

Giving up something valuable—an animal, wealth, or comfort—fi sabeel Lillah helps detach the heart from worldly things and reattach it to the Creator. It's a reminder: "Nothing I own is truly mine; everything belongs to Allah." That shift realigns your heart with your ultimate purpose.

3. Spiritual Cleansing

The Quran says:

"It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him.— [Surah Al-Hajj 22:37] 

The act itself isn't about the physical sacrifice. It's about what it represents—your sincerity, humility, and taqwa (God-consciousness). That internal state draws you closer to Allah.

4. Charity and Empathy

Qurbani isn't just personal—it's social. The meat is distributed to the poor and needy, often people who rarely get to eat meat. This generosity:

  • Softens the heart.
  • Builds compassion.
  • Makes you aware of your blessings.

Serving others for the sake of Allah transforms a ritual into a bridge between you and Him.

5. Renewed Gratitude and Tawakkul

Giving something up and trusting that Allah will provide in return—this builds tawakkul (reliance on Him). And when you witness that provision, it increases your shukr (gratitude), which is another key to staying spiritually close to Him.

Fostering Gratitude and Cultivating Humility through Qurbani

By giving up a portion of wealth to purchase an animal, the individual reflects on the blessings they’ve been given. It’s a powerful reminder that everything we own is a trust from Allah, and giving from it humbles the soul.

Giving in a Way of Allah Builds Empathy and Brotherhood

The meat is often shared in thirds: one for the family, one for relatives/friends, and one for the poor. This distribution ensures that everyone, even the most vulnerable, can enjoy the blessings of Eid. It teaches empathy and breaks social barriers — the wealthy and the poor are united under one cause.

The Social Impact of Qurbani: Encourages Charity and Social Responsibility

When done "fi sabeel Lillah", the intent is purely for the sake of Allah, often with the whole portion given to those in need. This is especially impactful in areas where families might go months without access to meat due to poverty. Qurbani instills a habit of giving without expecting anything in return. For many people around the world, the meat they receive during Eid al-Adha might be the only time they get to eat meat all year. That simple act of giving becomes a lifeline.

Revives the Sunnah and Islamic Legacy

It keeps the spirit and story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) alive, connecting generations with a rich spiritual heritage. Performing Qurbani with understanding makes it more than a ritual — it becomes a transformative experience.

Creates Community Bonds through Qurbani

From selecting the animal to distributing the meat, the whole process often involves family, neighbors, and the local community. It strengthens social ties, promotes cooperation, and fills the air with a sense of unity and celebration.  Acts of generosity during religious festivals remind recipients that they are part of a global community, often bringing emotional comfort.

Delegating to Reliable Agents

Many people want their Qurbani to be done solely for the sake of Allah (Fee Sabeel Lillah) without expecting meat in return. Alkhidmat fulfills this intention by distributing the meat entirely to the poor and needy. People usually make mistake while trusting people or organizations without verifying their legitimacy or whether they follow Islamic guidelines. Verify the organization, ensure they perform Qurbani in the correct time and manner, and get confirmation or evidence of completion. With years of experience and a wide volunteer network, Alkhidmat is capable of managing large-scale Qurbani projects efficiently and within the required time frame. 

By Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan

Bio. Press Release

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