The answer given by the Sunnah is different for a baby boy and a baby girl. The following is a guide to help parents understand the distinction:
The commonly cited Sunnah concerning Aqiqah for a baby boy is to sacrifice two sheep or goats in narrations from the Prophet ﷺ concerning Aqiqah.
The commonly cited Sunnah concerning Aqiqah for a baby girl is to sacrifice one sheep or goat. Thus, the distinction is
Baby boy: Two animals.
Baby girl: One animal.
Parents should ensure that the animal offered meets the applicable requirements for a valid Aqiqah sacrifice.
The distinction is based on the prophetic guidance concerning Aqiqah. Muslims follow the Sunnah as transmitted to us rather than trying to formulate our own rules around the number of animals for Aqiqah. There is no need for parents to feel that they must spend beyond their means to make the occasion look impressive.
Sheep and goats are commonly used for Aqiqah. The animal should be suitable according to the applicable Islamic requirements. If a family is unsure about the requirements concerning the age or condition of an animal, then it is best to ask a qualified scholar or a reliable Aqiqah provider who follows appropriate Islamic guidance.
The important point is not simply choosing the largest or most expensive animal. The animal needs to meet the relevant Islamic requirements. Parents should take care about services that focus only on attractive packages without explaining what animal is actually being provided.
Yes. The parents can eat the meat of their child's Aqiqah. The meat may also be shared with relatives, friends, neighbors, and people in need. The notion that parents are not allowed to eat their child's Aqiqah meat is a common misconception.
No general rule requires parents to give away all of the meat.
Families can eat from it and share it with others.
Some families may choose to give a larger portion to people in need, while others may distribute it among relatives and neighbors.
Parents blessed with twins have a special situation and should consider the applicable guidance for each child.
Because details can vary depending on the circumstances and the school of Islamic jurisprudence being followed, families should consult a qualified scholar if they want a ruling specific to twins or multiple births.
Aqiqah is traditionally connected with the birth of a child.
Questions involving adoption, fostering, or guardianship can involve additional circumstances, so families should ask a qualified Islamic scholar for guidance rather than assuming that the ordinary ruling applies in exactly the same way.
Families should not put themselves under unnecessary financial pressure.
Many scholars consider Aqiqah a strongly recommended Sunnah rather than an obligation.
If a family cannot afford it, they should not borrow money or create hardship simply to organize an expensive event.
Yes, families living abroad can arrange Aqiqah in Pakistan via an online service if the service offers the relevant arrangement.
For a baby boy, parents can select the package corresponding to the commonly cited two-animal Aqiqah.
For a baby girl, they can select the one-animal option.
Before booking, parents should confirm exactly what the package includes.
The basic guidance is straightforward:
Aqiqah does not need to become complicated or expensive. Parents can observe the Sunnah simply and focus on sharing the meat with others and being grateful for the blessing of their child.
For specific fiqh questions, especially where scholars differ, families should consult a qualified Islamic scholar.girl,