The Book of Sacrifices - Sahih Muslim 1973

O people of Medina, do not eat the flesh of sacrificed animals beyond three days. Ibn al-Muthanni said: Three days. They (the Companions of the Holy Prophet) complained to the Messenger of Allah (may peace he upon him) that they had children and servants of theirs (to feed), whereupon he said: Eat, and feed others, and store, and make it a provision of food.

Commentary on the Initial Prohibition

The initial prohibition limiting consumption of sacrificial meat to three days was a temporary ruling specific to the early period of Islam in Medina. This restriction served multiple divine wisdoms: it prevented wastefulness, encouraged timely distribution to the needy, and distinguished Muslim practices from pre-Islamic customs where meat was preserved for extended periods.

Scholars explain this was during the early years when poverty was widespread, ensuring the blessings of sacrifice reached the maximum number of people quickly rather than being hoarded by individual households.

The Abrogation and Final Ruling

When the Companions expressed practical difficulty in feeding their families and dependents within this limited timeframe, the Prophet (peace be upon him) received divine permission to abrogate this restriction. The final ruling permits storing sacrificial meat beyond three days, making it a lasting provision for one's household.

This abrogation demonstrates the flexibility and practicality of Islamic law, accommodating human needs while maintaining the spirit of worship. The permissibility to store reflects Allah's mercy in allowing believers to benefit from their sacrifices over time.

Juridical Implications

The majority of scholars hold that the final ruling permits unlimited storage and consumption of sacrificial meat. However, it remains recommended to distribute a portion to the poor and neighbors to fulfill the communal aspect of this worship.

This hadith illustrates the principle of abrogation (naskh) in Islamic jurisprudence, where later revelations modify earlier rulings. It also teaches the etiquette of consulting scholars when facing religious difficulties, as the Companions did by bringing their concern to the Prophet.