Riaz Aluher
In Islam, Qurban is a respected and rewarding act of worship. The Holy Quran states: “So pray to your Lord and sacrifice [to Him alone].”— (Surah Al-Kawthar 108:2)
At the same time, Islam is not a religion that promotes conflict, hatred, or social division. The Quran repeatedly reminds believers to uphold justice, wisdom, compassion, and peaceful coexistence with others.
This year in Sri Lanka, the week of the Hajj festival also falls during the nationally observed Vesak week, a deeply sacred period for the Buddhist community. Naturally, discussions have emerged regarding animal sacrifice during this sensitive time, and there are voices expressing concern that such acts may affect communal harmony.
In situations like this, Muslims must reflect not only on what is permissible, but also on what is wise, compassionate, and beneficial for society as a whole. Islamic history provides powerful examples of this wisdom. During the time of Caliph Umar ibn Al-Khattab (R.A.), when Jerusalem came under Muslim rule, he was invited to pray inside a Christian church. Although he could have done so lawfully, he respectfully declined. His reason was profound: he feared that future generations of Muslims might later claim the church as a mosque simply because Umar had prayed there. To protect harmony and the rights of others, he chose restraint over insistence.
This historic example teaches an important lesson: preserving coexistence and preventing future tension can sometimes take priority over exercising a permissible act.
The Quran itself encourages believers to avoid actions that may lead to hostility and conflict. Allah says: “And do not insult what they invoke other than Allah, lest they insult Allah in enmity without knowledge.” …………… — (Surah Al-An‘am 6:108)
This verse highlights a broader Islamic principle — Muslims should avoid actions that unnecessarily provoke hatred, anger, or social unrest.
Qurban is indeed an acceptable and honoured practice in Islam. However, Islamic scholars have also explained that preventing harm and preserving peace are major objectives of the Shariah. If carrying out a public act in a particular context is likely to provoke violence, hatred, or serious communal disturbance, Muslims are encouraged to act with wisdom and responsibility.
This does not mean Muslims should abandon their faith or surrender their religious identity. Rather, it means understanding the higher values of Islam — mercy, patience, coexistence, and social responsibility.
The spirit of Eid-ul-Adha is not merely about the slaughter of an animal. It is about sacrifice in the truest sense — sacrificing ego, anger, pride, and actions that may damage unity among people.
Sri Lanka has always been a country where all religions and cultures are respected and honoured.
At a time when communities are striving to rebuild trust and understanding, all religious groups must act with sensitivity and mutual respect.
True faith is not proven by creating division, but by protecting peace while honouring one’s beliefs with wisdom and dignity.
