Dhabihah

Qurbani 2008 Animal sacrifice at Islamic festival in Bangladesh

Dhabihah is the prescribed method of halal slaughter for all meat sources, excluding fish and other sea-life, according to Islamic law. The procedure is performed by a Muslim, who must invoke the name of Allah before making a swift, deep incision with a sharp knife on the throat of the animal, cutting the windpipe, jugular veins, and carotid arteries, but leaving the spinal cord intact. This method is required to fulfill the conditions of halal for the consumption of meat for Muslims, ensuring that the blood is fully drained from the carcass, rendering it cleaner and purer.

Procedure

The dhabihah method is detailed in Islamic jurisprudence and is considered an essential part of Islamic dietary laws. Before the slaughter, the animal must be healthy and alive. The person performing the slaughter, known as the Qassim, must be a sane adult Muslim. The knife to be used must be sharp and clean to ensure a humane cut that minimizes the suffering of the animal. The name of Allah, typically with the phrase "Bismillah" (In the name of Allah) and "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the greatest), must be invoked at the time of slaughter. The animal is then laid on its left side facing the Qibla (direction of the Kaaba in Mecca), and the throat, windpipe, and blood vessels in the neck are swiftly and smoothly cut with a single stroke, without severing the spinal cord. After the cut, the blood is allowed to drain from the body.

Significance

The significance of dhabihah in Islam goes beyond the method of slaughter. It embodies the Islamic principles of respect for life, taking only what is necessary for sustenance, and minimizing the pain and distress to the animal. This method is believed to be the most humane and clean, ensuring the meat is permissible (halal) for consumption by Muslims. The practice also serves as a reminder of the sanctity of life and the importance of invoking Allah's name and seeking His permission before taking a life for food.

Controversies and Modern Practices

The dhabihah method has faced scrutiny and debate, particularly in non-Muslim countries, regarding animal welfare and rights. Critics argue that the method may cause unnecessary suffering to animals. In response, many Islamic scholars and organizations emphasize the importance of the skill and intention behind the slaughter, arguing that when performed correctly, dhabihah is a quick and humane method. Modern practices have also seen the incorporation of pre-slaughter stunning under certain conditions, to minimize pain, provided it does not cause the animal's death before the dhabihah cut is made.

Halal Certification

Due to the specific requirements of dhabihah, halal certification agencies play a crucial role in the global food industry, ensuring that meat products comply with Islamic law. These agencies inspect and certify slaughterhouses, meat processing plants, and other food companies, providing assurance to Muslim consumers about the halal status of their food.

See Also

• Halal
• Islamic dietary laws
• Qibla
• Kaaba
• Mecca