From his father that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "I used to prohibit you from (eating) the meat of Sacrifice beyond three days so that those who have the ability would give to those who do not have it. So (now) eat as you like, feed others, and save from it."
The Book on Sacrifices - Jami' at-Tirmidhi
Hadith Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1510
Hadith Text
From his father that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: "I used to prohibit you from (eating) the meat of Sacrifice beyond three days so that those who have the ability would give to those who do not have it. So (now) eat as you like, feed others, and save from it."
Commentary on the Abrogation
This noble hadith demonstrates the wisdom of Islamic legislation and its gradual implementation. Initially, the Prophet (ﷺ) prohibited storing sacrificial meat beyond three days to ensure its distribution among the poor and needy. This temporary prohibition served as a means to cultivate generosity and social responsibility among the early Muslim community.
The subsequent permission to store the meat reflects the maturation of the community's understanding and practice. Once the habit of giving to the poor was firmly established, the restriction was lifted, allowing believers greater flexibility while maintaining the spirit of charity.
Legal Rulings Derived
The scholars have derived from this hadith that it is permissible to eat, store, and give away sacrificial meat without time restrictions. The initial prohibition was specific to that time and circumstance and does not apply to later generations.
The ruling emphasizes that the primary objectives of sacrifice - drawing closer to Allah, feeding oneself, one's family, and the poor - remain constant, while the means of achieving these objectives may vary according to time and circumstance.
Spiritual Lessons
This teaching illustrates the principle of gradual legislation in Islam, where rules are implemented progressively to suit the community's readiness. It also highlights the importance of considering the poor in our acts of worship and the wisdom behind changing rulings when their original purpose has been achieved.
The final permission encompasses three actions: eating for oneself, feeding others (which includes both inviting guests and giving to the poor), and storing for future needs - all being acts of worship when done with the right intention.