The Correct Islamic Way of Slaughtering
Why do Muslims slaughter the animal in a ruthless manner by torturing it and slowly and painfully killing it?
The Islamic way of slaughtering animals, known as Zabiha (slaughtering) has been the object of much criticism from a large number of people.
Before replying to the question, let us relate an incident about a discussion between a Sikh and a Muslim regarding Islamic way of slaughtering.
Once a Sikh asked a Muslim, “Why do you slaughter the animal painfully by cutting the throat instead of the way we do with one stroke ?” The Muslim replied, “We are brave and courageous and attack from the front. We are macho men, you are cowards and attack from behind”.
Jokes apart, one may consider the following points, which prove that the Zabiha (Islamic way of slaughtering) method is not only humane but also scientifically the best:
1. Islamic method of slaughtering animal
Islamic way of Slaughtering: Zakkaytum is a verb derived from the root word Zakaah (to purify). Its infinitive is Tazkiyah which means purification. The Islamic mode of slaughtering an animal requires the following conditions to be met:
1. Animal should be slaughtered with a sharp object (knife)
The animal has to be slaughtered with a sharp object (knife) and in a fast way so that the pain of slaughter is minimized.
2. Cut wind pipe, throat and vessels of neck
Zabiha is an Arabic word which means ‘slaughtered’. The ‘slaughtering’ is to be done by cutting the throat, windpipe and the blood vessels in the neck causing the animal’s death without cutting the spinal cord.
3. Blood should be drained
In the Islamic way of slaughtering, the blood must be completely drained before the head is removed. This step is crucial because blood serves as an ideal culture medium for microorganisms, including bacteria and toxins, which can compromise the hygiene and safety of the meat. Additionally, the spinal cord must remain intact during the process to avoid damaging the nerve fibres that control the heart.
Cutting the spinal cord prematurely can cause cardiac arrest, which would halt the heart’s pumping action and result in blood stagnating within the blood vessels. The continued beating of the heart ensures efficient blood flow out of the body, maximizing the removal of blood and enhancing the cleanliness, freshness, and quality of the meat.
2. Blood is a good medium for germs and bacteria
Blood is a highly suitable medium for the growth of germs, bacteria, and toxins, which are often the primary causes of various diseases. In contrast to other methods, the Islamic way of slaughtering follows a specific procedure that prioritizes hygiene and safety. By cutting the main veins, arteries, and windpipe while keeping the spinal cord intact, this method allows the heart to continue pumping, ensuring the maximum drainage of blood from the body.
Since blood is a major carrier of harmful elements such as bacteria, toxins, and other pathogens, its removal significantly reduces the risk of contamination. This not only makes the meat cleaner and free from impurities but also safer and healthier for consumption, emphasizing both physical well-being and adherence to religious principles.
3. Meat remains fresh for a longer time
Meat slaughtered using the Islamic way of slaughtering remains fresh for a longer period due to the efficient removal of blood from the body. Blood, being a rich medium for bacteria and pathogens, accelerates the process of decomposition in meat.
By draining the majority of the blood, the Islamic method minimizes bacterial growth and delays spoilage, ensuring the meat stays fresher and safer for a longer time compared to other slaughtering methods. This not only enhances the quality and shelf life of the meat but also aligns with hygienic and health-conscious practices.
4. The animal doesn’t feel pain
Animals do not feel pain The swift cutting of vessels of the neck disconnects the flow of blood to the nerve of the brain responsible for pain. Thus the animal does not feel pain. During the process of Islamic way of slaughtering, the animal may appear to struggle, writhe, shake, and kick.
However, this is not due to pain but is a natural reaction caused by the contraction and relaxation of muscles as they become deficient in blood. This movement occurs as the blood flows rapidly out of the body, driven by the still-beating heart. The process ensures the maximum removal of blood, which carries harmful toxins and bacteria, making the meat cleaner, safer, and more hygienic for consumption. This method prioritizes both the animal’s welfare and the quality of the meat.
Very true and informative,
Jazakallah khair.
true
scientifically true
GOD BLESS WHO COMTRIBUTE SOMETHING IN. ISLAM
Ameen Isa 🙂
Could you post the dua for slaughtering as well
nICE Post
بسم اللہ الرحمن الرحیم
Dua for Sacrifice
Bismillaahi wallaahu ‘Akbar [Allaahumma minka wa laka] Allaahumma taqabbal minnee.
In the Name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest! [Oh Allah, from You and to You.] Oh Allah, accept it from me.
Source: Muslim 3/ 1557, Al-Bayhaqi 9/287.
Truthful,jazaakallahu khayran.