Aqiqah | Muslim Hands UK

Aqiqah

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What is Aqiqah?

Aqiqah is a birth ritual performed by Muslims when a child is born. It is a Sunnah, following the example of the Prophet (saw) and involves shaving the the baby's hair before sacrificing an animal in celebration of the new life and in gratitude to Allah (swt).

The meat from the animal is distributed to disadvantaged people and money equivalent to the weight of the baby's hair in silver or gold is also given in charity.

Every baby is held as if in mortgage by his ‘Aqiqah, so slaughter for him on the seventh day, and shave his head, and name him.

[Ibn Majah]

When should Aqiqah be performed? 

It is Sunnah to perform Aqiqah on the seventh day of the baby’s birth or if not the seventh day, any subsequent seventh day onward. Aqiqah can be performed even when the child has become mature. 

How many Aqiqah animals should be sacrificed? 

Two animals should be sacrificed for the birth of a boy and one animal for a girl. However, there is no limit to how many animals you can offer.

Do I have to shave my baby’s hair for Aqiqah? 

It is recommended to shave your baby’s hair as a symbol of purification. The cut hair should then be weighed and its equivalent value in silver should be given as Sadaqah to those in need. The sacrifice should be done after the hair is shaved or at the same time but not before. 

How does Muslim Hands carry out my Aqiqah?

  • Our local teams ensure that your Aqiqah animal meets all the criteria for sacrifice; including being at least 6 months old for lambs and 12 months old for goats, having no defects and being healthy and well cared for.
  • We distribute the meat amongst those in need who are identified by our local experts. Priority is usually given to orphans and widows. The benficiaries of your meat make du'a for you and your child.
  • You receive a feedback photo with information about where your Aqiqah was carried out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I donate my Aqiqah through Muslim Hands?

The easiest way to donate is through our website. Simply go to the donation page and add it to your basket. Then checkout using Apple pay, Google pay, credit card, debit card or direct bank transfer. If you'd prefer to donate by phone, you can give us a call on 0115 911 7222.

Are Aqiqahs different for boys and girls?

The only difference between an Aqiqah for a boy and a girl is that it is recommended that two sheep be sacrificed for a boy while one is sacrificed for a girl.

Do you have packages for Aqiqahs?

As well as the sacrifice of the animal, we offer Aqiqah packages for girls and boys, which also include a recommended book on parenting in Islam and Sadaqah to cover the weight of a child’s hair. The Aqiqah package is priced at £180.

I have special instructions for my Aqiqah - what do I do?

If you have any specific instructions for your Aqiqah or any further questions, please contact our Donor Care Team on 0115 911 7222.

Where will my Aqiqah be carried out?

We perform Aqiqahs in Sudan, Mali and Niger.

Who does the Aqiqah meat go to?

Our local teams identify those most in need, with priority given to orphans and widows.

Do I receive feedback for my Aqiqah?

Yes. You will receive a feedback photo of your Aqiqah being carried out. You will usually receive your feedback within 4-6 weeks of donating. We will send your feedback via email or by post, depending on your preference.

How much is Aqiqah for a boy?

Aqiqah for a boy is £160.

How much is Aqiqah for a girl?

Aqiqah for a girl costs £80.

Aqiqah Boy

Celebrate the birth of a baby boy and show gratitude.

Aqiqah Girl

Celebrate the birth of a baby girl and show gratitude.

Aqiqah Pack for a Boy

Includes the sacrifice, Sadaqah for baby's hair and an Islamic parenting book

Aqiqah Pack for a Girl

Includes the sacrifice, Sadaqah for baby's hair and an Islamic parenting book.