Is korban mandatory for women?

Yes, in the Hanafi madhab (school of thought). Korban is considered wajib (mandatory) on all individuals who pay zakat.

 

The conditions which make both korban and zakat obligatory are:

  • adulthood (having reached puberty)
  • sanity
  • being Muslim
  • possessing nisab
  • not being a traveller*

 

However, in other madhabs, korban is considered a sunnah muakkidah (a highly emphasised act) which is a grade below mandatory.

 

*In Islamic law a traveller is someone who leaves their city’s boundary, intends to travel more than 48 miles (77 kilometres) from their home, and plans to stay at their destination for less than 15 full days.

 

Is korban fardh on women?

Fard refers to an obligatory religious duty commanded by God.

 

In the Hanafi madhab korban is considered mandatory.

 

In practical terms, an act being wajib essentially means it is fardh.

Can women perform korban themselves?


Yes, women may perform the qurbani slaughter themselves.

Do women have to give a separate korban from their husband?

 

Yes. According to the Hanafi madhab, korban is an individual obligation. Both the husband and wife must donate a minimum of 1 qurbani each if they are Muslims if sound mind who possess the nisab amount.

Both husband and wife can make a joint korban, but only in the case where the animal is large enough that they can both donate their required share from its meat.

Large animals (such as cows, buffalos or camels) can be divided into 7 shares. In this case, both husband and wife can take 1 share each, meaning their individual korban obligations are fulfilled.

However, smaller animals (such as a sheep or goat) only count as 1 korban.

A husband may donate a share for korban on behalf of his wife if he wishes, but this is not compulsory.

According to the Shafi’i, Maliki, and Hanbali schools, 1 korban can cover an entire household as a ‘Sunnah Kifayah’ (communal recommended act), but it is still highly recommended for individuals to offer their own korban.

If you are unsure what guidance applies to you, it is best to seek advice from your local imam according to your madhab.

Fulfil your korban this Eid and reap the rewards of the 10 best days. Donate today.

© Copyright 2026 Islamic Relief Worldwide, Inc. All rights reserved.

QUICK DONATE