Can You Offer Qurbani for the Deceased?

The blessed month of Dhul Hijjah is one of the most sacred times in the Islamic calendar—its days are filled with divine mercy, opportunity, and immense spiritual reward. It is a time when the hearts of believers turn toward Allah with heightened devotion, sincerity, and longing.

The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah are particularly special, so much so that the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” (Bukhari)

At the heart of this sacred month lies the profound act of Qurbani—the sacrifice of an animal for the sake of Allah. This act is far more than a ritual. It is a powerful symbol of submission, trust, and surrender. It traces its roots back to the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was commanded by Allah to sacrifice what he loved most: his son, Isma'il (AS).

When we give Qurbani during Dhul Hijjah, we are not only fulfilling a sacred obligation; we are reviving the legacy of Ibrahim (AS). We are declaring, with our actions, that nothing in this world is more beloved to us than Allah. Through this single act, we draw nearer to our Creator, purify our hearts, support the needy, and strengthen our connection to the values of sacrifice, obedience, and compassion.

Eid al-Adha is a time of joy and togetherness, when Muslims celebrate with friends and family. But for many, it’s also a time when the absence of loved ones who have passed away is deeply felt. As we offer Qurbani to seek reward from Allah, it's only natural to want our deceased loved ones to share in that reward too.

But what is the ruling on giving Qurbani on behalf of someone who has passed away?

Yes, it is permissible to give Qurbani on behalf of someone who has passed away. But there are a few guidelines.

1. Qurbani for someone who has passed away must be given with your own—not as a separate offering. You can include them in your niyyah (intention) when making your Qurbani, allowing them to share in the reward.

2. If the deceased who passed put in their last will and testament, known as the wasiyah, that they want Qurbani to be given on their behalf, then their wishes need to be carried out.

If you have any further questions about the permissibility of giving Qurbani on behalf of the deceased, then it’s best to consult with an imam for further clarification.

Giving Qurbani on behalf of your deceased parents is permissible. However, as stated in the guidelines above, it must be included as part of your Qurbani, not separately.

You can give Qurbani on behalf of a loved one who has passed away. But again the same rules apply. It must be given with your own Qurbani. It cannot be given separately.

“When a man dies, his good deeds come to an end, except three: Ongoing charity, beneficial knowledge, and a righteous child who will pray for him.” -Prophet Mohammedصلى الله عليه وسلم) Sahih Muslim)

Giving Qurbani on behalf of someone who has passed away is considered a form of sadaqah jariyah (ongoing charity). Although they can no longer perform good deeds themselves, they can still receive reward for certain actions carried out by others.

O Allah, grant our beloved departed ones the highest place in Jannat al-Firdous. Bless them with its eternal pleasures without reckoning, and reunite us with them in gardens of everlasting bliss, by Your mercy, O Most Merciful of those who show mercy.

If you are ready to give your Qurbani, you can do so by giving to our Qurbani Appeal. We will ensure that your Qurbani is delivered directly to families in need.

May Allah (SWT), the Most Merciful, accept every Qurbani made on behalf of our beloved deceased. May these sacrifices be a light in their graves, a means of elevation in their rank, and a continuous charity that brings them reward until the Day of Judgment.

May He forgive their shortcomings, overlook their faults, and reward them as though they had made the sacrifice with their own hands. May the sincerity of our intentions reach them, and may their souls rejoice knowing they are remembered, honoured, and loved.

Ameen, ya Rabb al-‘Alameen.

By Human Appeal

Manchester, United Kingdom