Welcoming a newborn into the world is one of the most joyous moments in Islam. With this gift comes the responsibility of observing the beautiful Sunnahs associated with a child’s arrival. Two significant practices in this regard are Aqiqah and Tahnik. These traditions are not only spiritually rewarding but also serve as a form of gratitude to Allah for the blessing of a child.
In this article, we’ll explore the essential duas (supplications), recommended Sunnahs, and what to say and do during Aqiqah and Tahnik, especially if you're planning to observe these rites in Singapore. Whether you’re a new parent or helping someone else with the process, this guide will walk you through what you need to know.
Understanding Aqiqah and Its Importance
Aqiqah is a Sunnah practice performed by Muslim parents to show gratitude for the birth of a child. It involves sacrificing one (for a girl) or two (for a boy) animals, usually sheep or goats, on the seventh day after the child’s birth. Alongside the sacrifice, the child’s hair is shaved and charity is given in gold or silver equivalent to the weight of the hair.
In Aqiqah Singapore services, these practices are professionally managed to align with Islamic rulings while ensuring ease and convenience for the parents. Many parents now opt for aqiqah and tahnik Singapore packages like Alfajr that handle the entire process, including the distribution of meat to the needy.
Sunnahs to Follow During Aqiqah
Following the Sunnah ensures that this act of worship is carried out in the best way:
-
Perform Aqiqah on the 7th Day
If not possible, it can be done on the 14th or 21st day, or anytime later. -
Shave the Baby’s Head
The head of the baby should be shaved after the sacrifice. This act symbolizes purification and is followed by giving charity based on the hair’s weight in silver. -
Give a Good Name
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of giving children meaningful and beautiful names. -
Offer Duas
While performing the Aqiqah, reciting specific duas is highly recommended. One of the most common duas is:“Bismillahi Allahu Akbar, Allahumma minka wa laka, hadhihi ‘aqiqatul fulan.”
(Translation: In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest. O Allah, this is from You and for You. This is the Aqiqah of [child’s name].) -
Distribute Meat Accordingly
The meat from the sacrifice should be divided into three portions: one for the family, one for friends and relatives, and one for the poor and needy.
What is Tahnik?
Tahnik is another Sunnah that is often performed together with Aqiqah. It involves softening a date and rubbing it gently on the newborn’s palate. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself performed Tahnik for many newborns brought to him.
In Tahnik Singapore practices today, many Islamic centers and religious leaders offer this ritual as part of their aqiqah and tahnik services, especially for parents who want to ensure the practice is performed correctly.
Sunnahs of Tahnik
-
Use a Date or Sweet Substance
A soft, ripe date is preferred. If a date is not available, something sweet like honey may be used, but dates are the Sunnah choice. -
Performed by a Pious Person
It is encouraged for the tahnik to be done by a righteous, pious individual or religious leader, in hopes that their good character may influence the child spiritually. -
Say a Du’a for the Child
While performing Tahnik, it's recommended to supplicate for the child’s well-being, asking Allah to bless and protect the child:“May Allah make him (or her) among the righteous, and a delight to his (or her) parents.”
Modern Aqiqah and Tahnik in Singapore
With the growing number of Muslim families in Singapore, there has been a rise in services offering aqiqah and tahnik Singapore packages. These services often include:
-
Animal sacrifice conducted according to Shariah
-
Hair shaving and donation guidance
-
Tahnik ceremony performed by religious leaders
-
Naming ceremony
-
Gift boxes or commemorative items
-
Distribution of meat to the needy, locally or overseas
These packages help busy or new parents observe the rituals correctly without worrying about the logistical aspects.
Why Aqiqah and Tahnik Matter
Both Aqiqah and Tahnik are acts of worship that strengthen the child’s spiritual beginning. These rituals:
-
Demonstrate gratitude to Allah
-
Establish identity within the Muslim community
-
Offer protection and blessings through Sunnah practices
-
Fulfill prophetic traditions
Even if you live in a modern setting like Singapore, these acts are timeless and easily accessible thanks to Alfajr.
Conclusion
Incorporating the proper duas and Sunnahs in your child’s early life lays a strong foundation rooted in faith. By performing aqiqah and tahnik, you are not only fulfilling a noble tradition but also bringing barakah (blessing) into your family’s life. Whether you choose to organize it yourself or engage professional aqiqah and tahnik Singapore services, ensure it is done with sincerity and gratitude.
For Muslim families in Singapore, these cherished Sunnahs are a beautiful way to begin the journey of parenthood with faith, love, and community support.
