The Arabic Root ق ر ب and the Secret of Qurbani

Have you ever wondered what the word Qurbani really means—not just in translation, but in the language of the Qur’an itself?At Roots Muslim School, we love exploring Arabic roots because they unlock the hidden beauty and connections in the Qur’an. And one of the most meaningful roots to explore—especially around Eid al-Adha—is the root ق ر ب (Q-R-B), which means “nearness.”

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What Does ق ر ب (Q-R-B) Mean?

In Arabic, most words come from three-letter roots. The root ق ر ب carries the essential meaning of being near, approaching, or drawing close. You’ll find this root in many key words used in both daily Arabic and Islamic practice.

Here are a few powerful examples:

• Qurbani (قربان) – The act of sacrifice during Eid al-Adha, symbolizing drawing near to Allah.
• Qareeb (قريب) – Meaning “near” or “close.”
• Muqarraboon (المقربون) – Those brought near to Allah in rank and mercy.
• Taqreeb (تقريب) – Bringing something or someone closer.
• Qurbah (قربة) – An act that brings one nearer to Allah.

Each of these words carries the spiritual and physical sense of moving closer, not just in space—but in love, intention, and submission to Allah ﷻ.

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Qurbani: A Word Full of Meaning

The term Qurbani doesn’t just mean “sacrifice” in a ritual sense—it comes from the desire to get close to Allah by giving up something valuable for His sake.

Think of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his willingness to sacrifice his son. The test wasn’t just about action—it was about proximity to Allah through trust and devotion.

➡️ Qurbani = قرب (nearness) + ني (suffix for sacrifice)
It literally means: an offering made to get closer.

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Qur’anic Verses with ق ر ب Words

The Qur’an uses ق ر ب in many powerful and beautiful ways. Here are some examples that are easy to spot:

“And when My servants ask you about Me – indeed I am near (قريب).”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:186)

“The ones brought near (المقربون) will be in gardens of delight.”
(Surah Al-Waqi’ah 56:11–12)

Learning Arabic through roots like ق ر ب helps children and adults see the deeper meanings and connect the dots between language, practice, and faith.

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Why Teach ق ر ب to Students?

This root is perfect for Arabic vocabulary building, especially during Eid season. Here’s why:

✅ It introduces the pattern of three-letter Arabic roots
✅ It connects language to lived Islamic practice
✅ It helps kids link vocabulary to Qur’anic values like nearness to Allah, sacrifice, and love

At Roots Muslim School, we often use themes like this in our Arabic courses to help students learn the language with purpose and spiritual relevance.

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Activity Idea: Root Word Hunt

Encourage students to hunt for words with the root ق ر ب in their Qur’an or in our Arabic classes. Let them color-code the words like:

• Qareeb (قريب)
• Aqraab (أقرب)
• Taqreeb (تقريب)

This kind of activity makes the root system come alive!

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Conclusion: Qurbani Is More Than a Ritual—It’s a Language of Love

As we prepare for Eid and reflect on the story of Ibrahim (AS), let’s not forget that Qurbani comes from قرب—from wanting to be close to Allah.

When we teach Arabic with this lens, we’re not just teaching grammar. We’re cultivating hearts that understand, feel, and live the Qur’an.

➡️ Ready to teach Arabic through meaningful, spiritually engaging lessons like this?
👉 Join our Arabic courses at Roots Muslim School – where language learning meets love for the Qur’an.