Understanding Islamic Animal Slaughter: Compassion Misunderstood

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On Friday the 6th, all Muslims around the globe, including here in Indonesia, performed the Eid prayer, followed by cow slaughtering, which was distributed to the homeless and people in need

In a world more connected than ever, cultural and religious practices often face global scrutiny especially when they involve traditions unfamiliar to some audiences. One such misunderstood practice is the Islamic method of animal slaughter, commonly known as Zabiha. .

To some who are unfamiliar with Islamic teachings, the act may appear shocking or even cruel. But a closer look reveals a faith-driven approach deeply rooted in compassion, ethics, and responsibility. 

The charity crew of the mosque passed out the meats, as you see all those green plastic bags, to homeless and people in need who lived in our neighborhood. Photo by me

The chairman of the charity program at our mosque, Mr Rian Rahardian. is being seen taking care of those green plastic wrap bags consist of beef meats for about 1 Kilogram for each plastic wrap

"I will not put the process of slaughtering or put some pictures those cows who have been slaugtered up here due to can be very graphic and disturbing for some people.  Viewer discretion is advised"

The Misunderstanding.

Many people from non-Muslim backgrounds first encounter images or videos of animal slaughter on social media—often out of context and emotionally charged. The sight of a cow or goat being slaughtered, especially if shown without explanation, can be deeply disturbing. .

It’s easy, then, to label it as "barbaric" or "inhumane." But such judgments often stem from unfamiliarity rather than fact. In truth, Islamic law lays out strict guidelines designed to minimize the animal's suffering and ensure the process is conducted with dignity and respect. .

The Heart of Zabiha.

In Islam, animals are seen as creations of God, deserving of kindness. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized humane treatment long before animal rights became a global topic. He condemned cruelty and called for mercy even during slaughter. .

Zabiha follows a specific set of principles: .The animal must be healthy and well-treated before slaughter.A sharp blade must be used to make the cut quick and minimize pain.God's name ("Bismillah, Allahu Akbar") is pronounced to acknowledge the act as a divine trust, not a casual or cruel deed.The animal should not witness the sharpening of the knife or the slaughter of others. .

This is not just a ritual it’s a spiritual and ethical practice that reminds the believer of their responsibility toward life. .

Why the Misperception Exists.

In many parts of the world, meat is consumed daily, yet the process by which animals become food is hidden from view. Industrial slaughterhouses operate behind closed doors, and packaged meat arrives at stores without context. For those unfamiliar with Islamic practices, seeing the raw, unfiltered reality of slaughter even when done ethically can trigger discomfort. .

Add to this the misuse or abuse of Islamic rituals by individuals who do not follow proper guidelines, and the confusion grows. Unfortunately, some of what circulates online under the name of "halal slaughter" may be unregulated, culturally distorted, or even illegal, which does not reflect the true Islamic ethos. .

A Call for Understanding.

Islamic slaughter is not without its critics, just as modern factory farming has its opponents. But to single out religious methods without understanding their moral foundations is neither fair nor productive. .

The Islamic approach to slaughter is rooted in accountability, mercy, and mindfulness values that align with broader human concerns about ethical food consumption. Open conversations, informed perspectives, and cross-cultural education are essential for moving beyond harmful stereotypes. .

In an age where outrage spreads faster than understanding, let us pause before we judge and choose to learn instead. .Summarize Respecting other traditions doesn’t mean you have to follow them. But in choosing understanding over assumption, we move closer to the shared human values that connect us all.