akikah
"Raikan Permatamu"
The birth of a baby is a much-awaited event in a family, bringing joy and harmony. As a symbol of joy and gratitude, parents may perform the 'akikah' ritual, which involves the sacrifice of livestock such as goats, sheep, or cows that meet the requirements of 'akikah'.
The implementation of Akikah and giving charity to slaughtered meat, especially when it is enjoyed by Muslims in need, will add more blessings and strengthen the bonds of family and relationship in Islam.
The birth of a baby is an event that is looked forward to in a family because their presence brings happiness and harmony. Akikah is the slaughter of farm animals that is done as a sign of joy and gratitude for the birth of a baby.
The conditions for the 'akikah' of both boys and girls are as follows:
According to the saying of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), which means:
"Whoever is blessed with a child and wishes to perform a religious rite for them, let them perform the 'aqiqah' ceremony for a male child with two goats and for a female child with one goat."
It is clear here that for a male child, parents should slaughter two goats, while for a female child it is one goat. However, for parents who are less capable, it is sufficient to perform the 'aqiqah' for a male child with only one goat.
The valid conditions for the Akikah are:
1. Intention (Niat) for Akikah - During the slaughtering of the animal, the slaughterer must have the intention (niat) for the akikah with the name of the child being akikah.
2. Four-legged Animal - The animal for akikah must be a four-legged animal, permissible for consumption (halal), free from physical and internal defects, not pregnant, and of sufficient age.
The animals referred to above are goats, sheep, lamb, kid, cattle, buffalo, and camel.
3. Fulfilling the Valid Conditions of Slaughter:
– The slaughterer must be a Muslim, of sound mind, and not in a state of ihram.
– The animal must be permissible for consumption (halal), die from a single slaughter, and have its jugular vein and windpipe severed.
– The slaughtering instrument must be sharp, such as a knife, excluding teeth, bones, nails, hair, and strings.
Distribution of Akikah Meat:
For the distribution of Akikah meat, the method is as follows:
– 1/3 for personal consumption
– 1/3 to be given to friends or acquaintances
– 1/3 to be given in charity to fellow Muslims
It is recommended for Akikah meat to be cooked sweet before being given or donated to others.
