Hadith Text & Reference

"I attended the Eid Al-Adha' with the Prophet (ﷺ) at the Musalla. When he finished his Khutbah, he descended from his Minbar and was given a male sheep. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) slaughtered it with his hand and said: 'Bismillah, Wa Allahu Akbar, this from me and whoever does not slaughter from my Ummah.'"

Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1521 | Book: The Book on Sacrifices | Author: Jami' at-Tirmidhi

Context & Occasion

This narration describes the Prophet's practice during Eid al-Adha at the prayer ground (Musalla). The timing after the Eid khutbah demonstrates the proper sequence of Eid prayers, sermon, then sacrifice.

The Musalla (open prayer area) was typically outside the city, accommodating large gatherings for Eid prayers and facilitating the sacrificial rites.

Legal Rulings & Significance

The Prophet's personal slaughtering establishes the sunnah of performing one's own sacrifice when capable, though delegation is permissible.

The statement "this from me and whoever does not slaughter from my Ummah" indicates the Prophet's sacrifice covered those unable to sacrifice themselves, showing his comprehensive representation of the ummah.

Scholars derive that the Eid sacrifice (Udhiyah) is a confirmed sunnah (sunnah mu'akkadah) strongly recommended for those with means.

Spiritual Dimensions

Beginning with "Bismillah" (In the name of Allah) and "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is Greatest) connects the act to divine permission and magnification of Allah.

The Prophet's inclusion of those who cannot sacrifice demonstrates his role as mercy to the believers and the communal nature of Islamic rites.

This hadith illustrates the principle that acts of worship should be performed with proper intention, divine remembrance, and concern for the broader Muslim community.