Father Forcing Udhiyah if Son Already Possesses Nis’ab

Question

Can my father force me to offer Udhiyah? What if I have more than Nisab wealth for Zakat?

Bottom Line

A father cannot force his adult child to perform Udhiyah. It is Sunnah mu’akkadah, not obligatory. If one sacrifice is offered with the intention of covering the household, it suffices. Having wealth above nisab makes Udhiyah recommended, but still not fard.

Quick Answer

Udhiyah is a Sunnah mu’akkadah for every Muslim with means, but it is not compulsory. One sacrifice covers the entire household if intended as such. A father may encourage but cannot compel voluntary acts of worship. If you possess wealth above your needs, it is strongly recommended that you offer Udhiyah yourself.

Key Takeaways

• Udhiyah is Sunnah mu’akkadah, not an obligation.
• One Udhiyah can cover the entire household if intended.
• Parents may advise and encourage, but cannot compel voluntary worship.
• If you have wealth above your needs, offering Udhiyah is highly recommended.
• Acts of worship must be done sincerely for Allah, not out of compulsion.

Detailed Answer

Udhiyah is a confirmed Sunnah for every Muslim who has the means. The Prophet ﷺ sacrificed on behalf of himself, his family, and the ummah:

“O Allah, this is on behalf of Muhammad, the family of Muhammad, and the ummah of Muhammad.”Sahih Muslim 3637

Thus, one Udhiyah suffices for the household if intended that way.

Parents have a lofty status in Islam, and their guidance should be respected. However, acts of worship are ultimately for Allah alone. A father cannot compel his adult children to perform voluntary acts.

The Prophet ﷺ warned against neglecting Udhiyah despite having the means:

“Whoever can afford it but does not offer a sacrifice, let him not come near our prayer place.” Sunan Ibn Majah 3123

Therefore, if you possess wealth above your needs and dependents, it is Sunnah and highly recommended to offer Udhiyah yourself.

What This Means for You

If your father already sacrifices for the household, you are included in his intention. If you have the means, offering your own Udhiyah is strongly encouraged but not compulsory. Respect your father’s wishes, but remember that sincerity to Allah is what makes the act valid.

And Allah knows best

References

Primary Sources

Hadith

1. Sahih Muslim 3637: Prophet ﷺ sacrificed on behalf of himself, his family, and the ummah.
2. Sunan Ibn Majah 3123: Warning against neglecting sacrifice despite ability.

Secondary Sources

3. Ibn Qudāmah, al-Mughnī: Rulings on Udhiyah sufficing for households.
4. Fatawa al-Lajnah al-Daimah, 11/419: Household sacrifice covering family members.