Difference Between Hady and Udhiyah – Complete Breakdown

Sponsored

Umrah Bundle

Essential Items for Your Pilgrimage

Learn More
Sponsored

Umrah Companion

Umrah Companion – Your trusted guide for a seamless, well-organized, and stress-free pilgrimage experience every step.

Learn More
Sponsored

FREE Umrah & Water Well Giveaway

Click here to enter a FREE Umrah & Water Well Giveaway!

Enter FREE Giveaway!
Sponsored

Build a Well, Build Your Aakhirah

Give water, earn endless rewards - Donate a well in your name today

Donate Now!
Sponsored

Prayer Book

Essential prayers for Hajj and Umrah

Buy Now
Sponsored

Dua Cards

Authentic Dua Cards with prayers from Quran & Hadith for daily spiritual growth.

Learn More

The practice of animal sacrifice in Islam traces its origins to Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام), whose faith was tested when Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) commanded him to sacrifice his son. 

In response to his obedience, Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) provided a ram as a substitute, establishing sacrifice as a symbol of devotion and submission. This tradition remains central to Hajj and Eid al-Adha.

Two significant forms of sacrifice in Islam are Hady and Udhiyah, each with distinct religious obligations, timing, and purposes. While both involve slaughtering an animal as an act of worship, their roles differ.

Understanding these distinctions clarifies pilgrims and practising Muslims in fulfilling their religious duties.

Difference Between Hady and Udhiyah

In Islamic jurisprudence (fatwa), the difference between hady and udhiyah is significant. 

Hady is a sacrificial act directly linked to Hajj, while Udhiyah is a broader practice associated with Eid al-Adha. 

Both rituals have deep spiritual value, but their rules and obligations differ based on the context of their observance.

What Is Hady in Islam?

Hady is the sacrificial animal offered in specific pilgrimage rituals, particularly during Hajj. It is an integral part of the pilgrimage for those performing Hajj Tamattu’ and Hajj Qiran, where it serves as an expiation for certain violations or as a required offering. 

The sacrifice is performed on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah in the sacred precincts of Makkah, primarily in Mina.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) says:

“And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah. But if you are prevented, then [offer] what can be obtained with ease of sacrificial animals.” (Quran 2:196)

Hadiths on Hady

Jabir b. ‘Abdullah (Allah be pleased with them) reported:

We performed Hajj Tamattu’ along with Allah’s Messenger (may peace be upon him), and we slaughtered a cow on behalf of seven persons sharing in it.

“The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) sacrificed sixty-three (63) camels with his own hand during his farewell pilgrimage.” (Sahih Muslim 1218)

What Is Udhiyah in Islam?

Udhiyah is the act of slaughtering an animal (camel, cow, sheep, or goat) as an expression of obedience to Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) during Eid al-Adha. This sacrifice commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail (AS), as an act of submission to Allah’s command.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) says:

“So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone].” (Quran 108:2)

Hadiths on Udhiyah

Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“The son of Adam does no deed on the day of sacrifice that is more beloved to Allah than the shedding of blood (of the sacrificial animal).” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi 1493)

“For every hair of the Qurbani, a reward is recorded.” (Sunan Ibn Majah 3127)

Is Udhiyah Obligatory?

Udhiyah (أضحية), commonly known as Qurbani, is the sacrificial act performed by Muslims worldwide during Eid al-Adha. 

While it is highly recommended (Sunnah Mu’akkadah) in most Islamic schools of thought, the Hanafi school considers it obligatory (wajib) for those who meet the financial threshold (nisab).

Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

Your content goes here“Whoever can afford it, but does not offer a sacrifice, let him not come near our prayer place.” (Sunan Ibn Majah 3123)

Who Is Eligible for Udhiyah?

Muslims who meet the nisab threshold (the same as for zakat) must perform Udhiyah. 

Generally, it applies to:

  • Adult Muslims who are financially capable.
  • Households where at least one member qualifies based on wealth.
  • Those who are not travellers (some scholars allow travellers to perform Udhiyah but do not consider it obligatory).

Fiqh of Udhiyah

  • Permissible Animals: Sheep (1 person), goat (1 person), cow (7 shares), camel (7 shares).
  • Conditions: The animal must be healthy, without defects, and of the right age (sheep/goat: 1 year, cow: 2 years, camel: 5 years).
  • Timing: The sacrifice must be performed after Eid prayer and before sunset on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.
  • Distribution: Meat should be divided into three parts – one for the household, one for relatives and friends, and one for people in need.

FAQ

  • What Is Fidya?

Fidya is a form of compensation when a Muslim cannot fulfil certain religious obligations, such as fasting or completing Hajj rituals. It usually involves feeding people experiencing poverty or making a charitable donation.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى) says:

“And as for those who can fast with difficulty, they have to feed a poor person (as a substitute).” (Quran 2:184)

  • Can Husband and Wife Do One Qurbani?

Yes, in financial constraints, a husband and wife can jointly contribute to a larger animal (cow/camel) as part of the seven shares.

Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

Your content goes here“A cow or a camel is sufficient for seven people.” (Sunan Ibn Majah 3147)

  • What Is the Difference Between Qurbani and Udhiyah?

There is no difference; the terms are interchangeable. “Qurbani” is commonly used in South Asia, while “Udhiyah” is the Arabic term.

  • Who Is Eligible for Udhiyah?

Any Muslim who meets the nisab threshold and is not travelling is eligible and encouraged to perform Udhiyah.

Summary – Difference Between Hady and Udhiyah

Aspect Hady Udhiya
Purpose Required for certain Hajj types Performed during Eid al-Adha
Obligation Mandatory for Hajj Tamattu’ & Qiran Wajib (Hanafi) or Sunnah Mu’akkadah
Timing  10th of Dhul-Hijjah (Hajj) 10th-13th of Dhul-Hijjah
Location Only in Makkah/Mina Anywhere worldwide
Eligible Muslims Only for pilgrims Any financially capable person

The concepts of Hady and Udhiyah are potent reminders of faith, obedience, and sacrifice in Islam. While Hady is a sacrificial animal specific to pilgrims performing the Hajj, Udhiyah is a universal act that allows all Muslims to partake in the blessings of sacrifice.

If you search for the question of the differences between these two rituals, you will find that the timing, obligation, and days of sacrifice differ. Hady is performed during the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, while Udhiyah is performed from the 10th to the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.

Understanding these practices in English will help clarify their significance. By recognising their differences, Muslims can fulfil their religious duties sincerely and passionately, especially when considering the days of sacrifice.

For a complete guide to performing Umrah independently, get our DIY Umrah Guide today and ensure a smooth spiritual journey!