Animals have helped our society and the nations that have come before us in various ways. From providing us our food and protein, to healing our wounds, to keeping us warm and even supporting us in our spiritual journeys. In Islam, their significance is particularly emphasized during Eid al-Adha, a major religious celebration observed by Muslims worldwide. On this occasion, Muslims perform Qurbani, the ritual sacrifice of an animal such as a goat, sheep, cow, or camel in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.
Community strength is exactly what this wonderful event showcases. The meat from the sacrifice is typically divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for those in need. This ensures that even the most vulnerable in society can enjoy a nourishing meal, reflecting Islam’s deep commitment to charity, equity, and the ethical use of resources.
While the spiritual connection is there, animals also offer day-to-day health benefits through their various by-products. Animal-based foods like milk, meat, and eggs are powerhouses of essential nutrients. Milk, in particular, is incredibly versatile and can be transformed into a variety of valuable products that contribute significantly to human nutrition and health. However, some use milk in their baking or cooking. Take for instance, the making of white sauce for a pasta recipe or bake, you could turn plain white flour with a little bit of butter and some milk into a great base.
Another way milk can be used is as an ice-lolly. Pour the milk in to a glass, put in a flavoring and throw in a lollypop stick, you could be on to your next favorite ice-lolly! Another fantastic use of milk is in the word itself, milkshake! In modern day society a lot of dessert parlors will offer a range such as Oreo flavor, Kinder Bueno, Aero Mint and so on. You can get as creative as you desire and there is something truly to suit everyone.
One amazing product that takes even less ingredients than a white sauce is buttermilk, a fermented dairy drink that has been used for centuries across cultures. Traditionally made as a by-product of churning butter from cultured cream, buttermilk is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support digestive health. Probiotics play a vital role in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to improved digestion, a stronger immune system, and even better mental health. Unlike sweetened or flavored commercial drinks, traditional buttermilk is low in fat and calories, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a light, healthful beverage.
Buttermilk isn’t just a drink, it’s a multipurpose ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. Its natural acidity makes it an excellent tenderizer for meats, which is why it’s often used in marinades. It also enhances the texture of baked goods like pancakes, biscuits, and cakes, giving them a moist, fluffy consistency. In many parts of the world, especially South Asia and the Middle East, buttermilk is a common part of the daily diet, often consumed after meals to aid digestion and cool the body.
Moreover, the versatility of animal milk doesn’t stop at buttermilk. With minimal processing, milk can be turned into a wide range of products, including yogurt, cheese, ghee, and butter, all of which have their own unique health benefits. Yogurt, like buttermilk, is rich in probiotics and is known for its digestive benefits. Ghee, or clarified butter, has been valued for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda for its anti-inflammatory properties and high smoke point, making it excellent for cooking.
Beyond nutrition, animals also provide resources like wool, leather, and even fertilizer, proving that nearly every part of an animal can be utilized with respect and efficiency. This aligns with both ethical farming practices and the values in Islam that encourage avoiding waste and being mindful stewards of the Earth.
In a world where food waste is a growing concern and lifestyle diseases are on the rise, returning to traditional, holistic approaches to food like utilizing every part of an animal’s provision offers both practical and health-related benefits. By appreciating and maximizing what animals provide, we not only honor their role in our lives but also promote a more sustainable, healthy way of living.
Whether viewed through the lens of faith or health, animals remain a profound blessing. They nourish our bodies, support our well-being, and, in many cultures, serve as a reminder of deeper values such as gratitude, responsibility, and compassion.
