Aqiqah Aqiqah in Islamic Educational Perspective: An Analysis of Spiritual and Social Values

Abstract

This study aims to analyze aqiqah from the perspective of Islamic education by exploring the spiritual and social values embedded within it, as well as formulating its relevance for child education in the contemporary context. Employing a qualitative library research approach combined with hermeneutic-philosophical analysis, this study examines primary sources such as the Qur'an, Hadith, and classical fiqh literature, along with secondary sources including contemporary scholarly works and previous research findings. The results of the analysis reveal that aqiqah is not merely a post-birth religious ritual, but rather an integrated system of value education that functions as a hidden curriculum within Muslim family education. Spiritually, aqiqah instills four fundamental values: tawhid through the recitation of basmalah and the giving of Islamic names, gratitude as the foundation of positive character, the strengthening of Islamic identity through community involvement, and parental spiritual responsibility symbolized in the concept of tahrir. Socially, aqiqah fosters solidarity through collective participation, cultivates empathy through sharing with the underprivileged (dhuafa), strengthens family bonds, and promotes the early development of generosity and financial management. The integration of these spiritual and social dimensions reflects the principle of balance between habl min Allah (relationship with God) and habl min al-nas (relationship with fellow humans) in Islamic education. The novelty of this study lies in the conceptualization of aqiqah as a hidden curriculum that naturally transmits Islamic values through authentic religious experiences, while also offering a counter-cultural narrative against contemporary materialism and individualism. This study recommends further empirical exploration of aqiqah practices across various cultural contexts, as well as longitudinal studies on its long-term impact on children's character development.