Question: What is the concept of ‘aqiqah in Islam?  
    Answer: ‘Aqiqah was a ritual of the pre-Islamic Jahilliyyah period. The Prophet (sws) did not give religious sanction to it. Therefore, it is not part of the Islamic Shari`ah. However, animal sacrifice to express one's gratitude on a new addition to one's family is a deed which pleases the Almighty just as the prayer at an instance of joy pleases Him.