From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
An Islamic cleric, Ustaz Mustapha Yusuf Tsaida, has extolled the virtues of sacrifice, particularly the slaughtering of rams and other religious observances associated with the upcoming Eid al-Adha celebration.
Ustaz Tsaida cited authentic Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), noting that there is nothing more beloved to Allah during the days of sacrifice (Layya) than the act of offering animals in devotion.
He explained that the sacrificed animal will serve as a source of reward on the Day of Eid, adding that the Imam is expected to begin slaughtering his ram after the Eid prayer, while other Muslims should carry out theirs after returning home from the prayer ground.
According to him, the animal chosen for sacrifice must be healthy, with no defects in its body, fur, or hooves, as it is weighed as part of a believer’s good deeds.
“The sacrifice is accepted by Allah before the blood even reaches the ground. Therefore, Muslims are encouraged to perform it with a pure and joyful heart,” he said.
Ustaz Tsaida further emphasized that the meat should be shared with the less privileged, highlighting the importance of charity and compassion during the celebration.
He noted that the practice originated from the time of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), when he was commanded to sacrifice his son Ismail before Allah provided a ram from paradise as a substitute.
He added that Islam does not punish those who are unable to perform the sacrifice, stressing that it is a moral and spiritual act of devotion for those who have the means.
