What is the evidence supporting the permissibility of a non-Muslim slaughtering the Udhiyah?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Sacrifices (Uḍḥiyah)
Primary text
The permissibility is supported by the principle that whoever is permitted to slaughter other types of permissible animals is permitted to slaughter the Udhiyah, just as a Muslim is. Furthermore, a non-Muslim may perform acts that constitute worship for a Muslim, such as building mosques or bridges. The claim that fats become forbidden from their slaughter is not accepted. The narration concerning the slaughterer being 'pure' (tahir) is interpreted as recommending, not mandating, that a Muslim perform it, in order to avoid dispute.
Supporting text
It is preferable for the owner to perform the slaughter personally, as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) slaughtered his own sacrifices, invoking God's name and saying the Takbir, while placing his foot on the animal's side. The act of worship is best performed by the individual rather than through an agent.