What is the ruling regarding eating from voluntary Hady (Hady al-Tatavvu')?
Chapter on Ransom (Fidyah) and Penalty for Hunting
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
It is recommended to eat from voluntary Hady, which is that which is dedicated initially without being due for an obligation resting on one's neck, or that which is sacrificed voluntarily without being necessitated. This is supported by the saying of Allah the Almighty, "So eat from them," where the command implies at least recommendation. Evidence is further found in the Prophet's eating from his own sacrificial camel, and the permission granted to the Companions to eat and store provisions from their sacrifices after three days.
Supporting text
If one refrains from eating, there is no issue, as the Prophet when sacrificing five camels, only permitted cutting portions but did not eat from them himself. The Sunnah is to eat a small portion, as the Prophet did, but one has the latitude to eat much and provision for a journey, as mentioned in Jabir's hadith. Fulfilling the requirement of charity by giving a small amount suffices, similar to the Udhiyah (Eid al-Adha sacrifice); if one eats, they have fulfilled the prescribed portion for charity, as in the case of the Udhiyah.