Aqeeqa Sacrifice
The hair on the head of a newborn child is called "aqîqa". The sacrifice that is slaughtered for the child as a thanksgiving to Allah Almighty is called "Aqîqa/Nesîke sacrifice".
While the Aqîqa sacrifice is being slaughtered, the mother or father of the child says, "O Allah! This is my child's aqîqa. May this sacrifice be a ransom for his salvation from Hellfire."
Ruling on the Sacrifice of Aqeeqa
Sacrificing aqīqa is mustahab in the Hanafi Madhhab and sunnah in other madhhabs. The sacrifice of 'aqīqa can be slaughtered from the day the child is born. It is more virtuous to sacrifice it on the seventh day.
Animal to be Sacrificed
An animal that is suitable for sacrifice is also sufficient for aqîqah. It is sufficient to sacrifice one sacrifice for a boy and a girl. Some scholars have said that two sacrifices are required for a boy.
Aqeeqa can be sacrificed at any time
The one who has not slaughtered an 'aqeeqa' sacrifice in his lifetime can slaughter one on his own behalf. The Prophet (SAW) sacrificed aqîqa for himself and for his two grandsons when they were born after he declared his prophethood by the command of Allâhu ta'âlâ.
The Meat of the Aqeeqa Sacrifice
The owner can eat the meat of the 'aqīqah sacrifice, feed it to others, or donate some or all of it, or the sacrifice itself. Children are a blessing from Allâh. These sacrifices are also a thanksgiving for that grace.
