Each year, the story of Prophet Abraham and his son Ismail’s profound act of faith is retold from pulpits worldwide, when millions of worshippers embark on the Hajj pilgrimage. We hear of families going out to slaughter an animal on Eid al-Adha to emulate the sacrifice of Ibrahim, or Abraham, in obedience to his Lord. As we celebrate and remember, our children are observing and learning. However, for many children living in the West, the concept of sacrifice can be confusing and even unsettling, especially when it involves the idea of killing an animal. Children may hear others outside of their faith describe sacrifice as something barbaric or tied to ancient pagan rituals, where animals or even humans were killed on altars to appease angry gods. When children are exposed to these ideas without context, they may develop a sense of unease or misunderstanding about what sacrifice truly means in Islam.
It is thus imperative that families explain the practice of animal sacrifice in Islam in a way that resonates with a child's heart and intellect. The term sacrifice in Islam does not simply mean the shedding of blood. Instead, it is an intensely spiritual act that symbolizes devotion, gratitude, and submission to the will of Allah. In Islam, sacrifice is about trading something valuable for the sake of something greater. Whether it is giving up time, comfort, wealth, or, in the case of Eid al-Adha, an animal, the heart of the act lies in sincerity and obedience to the Divine.
In the Islamic tradition, animal sacrifice, known as Udhiyah or Qurbani, is a meaningful act of worship most observed during Eid al-Adha, the Festival of the Sacrifice. This ritual commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim and his son Ismail, a story remembered across generations as a powerful example of submission and devotion. According to the Quran, Prophet Ibrahim received a divine command through a dream to sacrifice his beloved son. Both father and son prepared to fulfill this command with complete trust in Allah. At the final moment, however, Allah sent down a ram to replace Ismail, showing that the real purpose of the test was not to take a life, but to demonstrate sincere faith and obedience.
The Udhiyah is a ritual that reminds us of Allah’s Oneness, helps us reflect on His blessings, and honors the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering trust in his Lord. The sacrifice itself holds deep significance, filled with spiritual benefit and blessing, and it is important for Muslims to give it careful thought and attention. The term Udhiyah refers specifically to the animal, whether a camel, cow, goat, or sheep, that is sacrificed as an act of worship to Allah. What makes the sacrifice meaningful is not the act itself, but the intention behind it. It is a symbol of devotion, a reflection of our willingness to give up something valuable for the sake of Allah, and an expression of our gratitude for His blessings.
Although animal sacrifice is also practiced in other religious traditions, including those of Jews, Christians, and Hindus, the Islamic understanding is unique. In Islam, sacrifice is not about appeasing a deity, offering it sustenance, or gaining favor through blood. It is about worship, humility, and submission. When a Muslim offers an animal during Eid al-Adha, it is a symbolic reenactment of Ibrahim’s obedience, a gesture of letting go of what one holds dear for the sake of the Creator, and an opportunity to benefit others with the blessings that come from that obedience by feeding the less fortunate.
The Quran explains that the physical aspects of the sacrifice do not reach Allah. What matters is the taqwa, or God-consciousness, behind the action, as Allah says;
“Neither their meat nor blood reaches Allah. Rather, it is your piety that reaches Him. This is how He has subjected them to you so that you may proclaim the greatness of Allah for what He has guided you to, and give good news to the good-doers.” (Quran, 22:37)
This verse highlights that the deeper purpose of the sacrifice is spiritual and not transactional. It is not done to “earn” Allah’s favor or buy forgiveness. Instead, it is an act of remembrance, charity, and connection to a prophetic legacy. Muslims are instructed to distribute the meat of the sacrificed animal to ensure that even the most vulnerable in the community can enjoy the blessings of Eid.
Addressing Children’s Concerns with Compassion
Given the topic's sensitivity, it is natural for children to feel uneasy or have many questions. Parents should approach their concerns with empathy, honesty, and wisdom. It is important not to dismiss or ignore a child’s discomfort but to guide them gently through it. Parents can start by normalizing the idea that feeling confused or concerned is understandable. Children must be reassured that Islam encourages thoughtfulness, questions, and seeking understanding. Then, they can be introduced to the story of Prophet Ibrahim and Ismail in a way that is age-appropriate. Explaining that neither the son nor the father acted out of fear, but out of love and trust in Allah, can help shift the narrative from one of violence to one of faith and mercy.
Children can also be reminded that the animal is not harmed out of anger or cruelty. Parents can explain that Islam places great importance on the humane treatment of animals. The Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, said:
“Verily, Allah has prescribed excellence in everything. If you have to kill, kill in the best manner. If you have to slaughter, slaughter in the best manner. Let one of you sharpen his knife, so his animal is spared of suffering.” (Sahih Muslim, 1955)
This means the animal must be treated kindly, given water, kept calm, and slaughtered swiftly and mercifully. It must not be killed in front of other animals or while in distress. These guidelines reflect Islam’s deep respect for all of Allah’s creatures, even in the moment of taking their life for sustenance.
Children can better grasp the meaning of animal sacrifice when it is connected to their own experiences and values. Parents might talk about other forms of sacrifice they already understand, like giving up screen time to help someone, or fasting during Ramadan. One way to make the practice more relatable is to explain that Udhiyah is a special, once-a-year way to remember how much God has given us and how we should share those blessings with others. It can also be helpful to contrast Islamic Udhiyah with how meat is usually obtained in the modern world. In many industrial meat processing plants, animals are frequently raised in cramped, unnatural conditions and slaughtered with little concern for their well-being. In contrast, Islam teaches that animals should be treated with dignity and allowed to live a healthy life.
Explaining Udhiyah to Children
Here are some helpful tips to talk to children about animal sacrifice in Islam:
- Tell the Story of Prophet Ibrahim and Ismail
Share the story in a way that emphasizes trust in Allah and divine mercy. Reassure children that Ismail was never hurt and that Allah values intention and obedience over physical acts. - Define Sacrifice in Their Terms
Use relatable examples of everyday sacrifice to show that it means giving up something for a greater good. This helps children see sacrifice as a positive, selfless act. - Emphasize the Values of Charity and Sharing
Talk about how the meat is shared with people who may not have enough food. Children can help pack meat or deliver meals to understand the charitable purpose behind the practice. - Highlight Humane Treatment
Explain that Islam requires the animal to be treated kindly and not to suffer. Use age-appropriate language to talk about how Islamic teachings protect animals’ rights. If possible, find a video that is not too graphic to show how animals are raised and their tame behavior before the sacrifice. - Draw Parallels to Halal Food
Many children already understand halal food rules. Explain that Udhiyah is like halal meat, but with additional spiritual significance and timing. - Answer Their Questions Gently
Be open to their questions, even if they are difficult. Use them as opportunities to teach, not dismiss. Honesty with compassion builds trust and understanding.
There is no better way to address the serious topic of animal sacrifice with children than by shifting the focus to Eid al-Adha as a holiday. Families can prepare for Eid al-Adha together by turning the occasion into a meaningful spiritual and communal experience, especially if they participate in the act of sacrifice. When children are included in the process and given opportunities to engage thoughtfully, it can help them connect more positively with the ritual and its significance. Attending Eid prayer as a family and reflecting on the message of submission to Allah will cement this spiritual connection. They will then remember sacrifice as an act of love, gratitude, and generosity.
Author bio: Wendy Díaz is a Puerto Rican Muslim writer, award-winning poet, translator, and mother of six (ages ranging from toddler to teen). She co-founded Hablamos Islam, a non-profit organization that produces educational resources about Islam in Spanish (hablamosislam.org). She has written, illustrated, and published over a dozen children’s books and lives with her family in Maryland. Follow Wendy Díaz on social media @authorwendydiaz and @hablamosislam.
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