Almost all religions and cultures have traditions regarding the arrival of a new baby in the family, such as baby showers before the arrival, baptisms, and celebration parties after the arrival of the baby. Similarly, Islam and Islamic countries follow the tradition of an Aqeeqa upon the arrival of the bundle of joy.

Aqeeqa incorporates the sacrifice of a lamb or a goat to ward off any evil eye or beings that could harm the baby. Plus, it gives parents the chance to celebrate this joyous occasion with friends and family, and introduces the latest addition to everyone. It also gives guests the opportunity to bestow their best wishes and a selection of Islamic baby gifts. Another advantage of Aqeeqa is that the poor are also given a fair share of the meat of the slaughtered animal. In short, an aqeeqa turns out to be both a social and community event, allowing parents to share their joy with the rich and the poor.

Aqeeqa can also be considered the baby shower for Muslims as this is the time for Islamic gifts for the baby and mother. This particular affair boasts of a wide selection of Islamic gifts that are helpful and useful for the new mother and child together. Islamic gifts offered at an Aqeeqa typically include personalized clothing and bedding such as blankets and onesies, a collection of important Surahs from the Quran, or a complete digital Quran that the mother can turn on for the baby to listen to from infancy. Feeding items such as feeding bottles, sippy cups, and bowls with sacred messages printed or engraved on them.

Other Islamic gifts that are considered appropriate for an Aqeeqa are hand-knitted coats, hats, mittens and socks for the baby, gold jewelry such as pendants with “Allah” or “Muhammad” written on them, identifying the child as a born Muslim . Halal baby lotions, shampoos and soaps that do not contain any disallowed ingredients are also available at certain locations. As these types of products are relatively new and not readily available everywhere, they make thoughtful Islamic gifts for a Muslim baby while also promoting awareness of these products among people who are unaware of their existence.

In short, any Islamic gift is welcomed by the family members of the little bundle of joy, as the gifts promote love and a happy bond between the giver and the receiver. Therefore, the giving of gifts has been highly recommended in Islam by the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) himself.