Qurbani becomes obligatory upon a Muslim once they reach puberty and are considered of mature age.
Understanding Qurbani and its Obligation
Qurbani, the sacrifice of an animal, is an important Islamic practice observed during Eid al-Adha. But who is actually required to perform it? The Hanafi school of thought, as outlined in the provided reference, specifies that the following criteria must be met for Qurbani to be considered farz (obligatory):
- Muslim: The person must be a Muslim.
- Sane: The person must be of sound mind.
- Mature Age: The person must have reached puberty.
Age of Obligation
The key factor related to age for Qurbani being farz is reaching puberty. This is generally understood to be:
- When physical signs of puberty manifest, such as the start of menstruation in girls or nocturnal emissions in boys.
- If such signs are not apparent, reaching a general age of maturity, usually around 15 years.
| Factor | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Religion | Muslim |
| Mental State | Sane |
| Age | Reached Puberty/Maturity |
Practical Considerations
- Zakat Eligibility: While the reference states eligibility for Zakat is a common factor, the direct obligation is based on the criteria above, specifically being of mature age (reaching puberty) within the Hanafi school.
- Responsibility: It's crucial to understand that when an individual reaches puberty, they become responsible for their religious obligations, including Qurbani if they have the means.
Conclusion
Therefore, Qurbani becomes farz once a Muslim has reached puberty/maturity, aligning with the Hanafi school of thought. It's not just about a specific number, but the onset of maturity.
