The sacrifice of livestock, including sheep, goats and cows, during Eid al-Adha commemorates a story mentioned in the Quran.
Contrary to popular belief, the ritual Qurbani is encouraged but not compulsory for all Muslims. It’s based on financial capability.
The word qurbani derives from the Arabic word "qurban", which has its roots in the word "qurb", meaning "closeness".
The origin of Eid al-Adha comes from Prophet Abraham’s dream, where he believed God commanded him to sacrifice his son Ismail.
For Muslims, the commandment was an ultimate test of faith and of obedience to God, which ended with the angel Gabriel replacing Ismail with a ram at the last moment.
The story is commemorated by Muslims in the form of the Qurbani, which is obligatory for every Muslim who can afford to do it.
The animal can’t be slaughtered unless “Bismillah Allahu Akbar” (In the name of God, God is Greatest) is said at the moment of sacrifice.
The meat must be split into three equal parts: one for the family, one for friends/neighbors, and one for those in need.