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Q 2: While we were performing Hajj and when slaughtering the sacrificial animals, we witnessed some people slaughtering young sheep. Others told them that this is impermissible, but they claimed it was acceptable and cited Allah's statement: (Part No. 11; Page No. 377) ...he must slaughter a Hady such as he can afford knowing that they are considerably well versed in Shari`ah (Islamic law), and some pilgrims ask them regarding some matters of the rituals of Hajj. Kindly explain to us the ruling in this regard. Is it permissible to slaughter young sheep under the age stipulated by Islamic law? Is there any condition with regard to the age of animals slaughtered as in the case of Ud-hiyah (sacrificial animal offered by non-pilgrims)? What is the meaning of Allah's statement: ...he must slaughter a Hady such as he can afford

A: The Shar`y (Islamically lawful) evidence indicates that a six-month old sheep are adequate as a sacrifice and so are one-year old goats, a two-year old cow, and a five-year old camel. Anything younger than that does not count as a Hady (sacrificial animal offered by pilgrims) or Udhiyah. This is what the Qur'an refers to in the relevant Ayah, because the texts of the Qur'an and Sunnah explain one another.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.