Slaughtering sacrificial animals, often sheep, is an important ritual during Eid Al Adha. 

The tradition is a reenactment of the Prophet Ibrahim's story, when he was asked by God to sacrifice his own son, Ismael, only for the boy to be replaced by a ram that God sent. 

The ritual is also a way for people to give back to those in need, as the meat is often shared. 

While this specific tradition is upheld by millions of Muslims all over the world, in recent years, many scholars, animal rights activists and organizations have spoken out against it. 

Their arguments have mostly been raised over animal sellers and butchers who ignore "religious edicts on humane slaughter." 

The debate around the issue is a sensitive one that often stirs up controversy both online and off. 

Late on Wednesday, the issue was raised once again, when someone decided to launch the "I won't slaughter for Eid," hashtag on Twitter, sparking outrage on the platform in Saudi Arabia. 

Here's how it all went down:  

Many tweeted in support of the hashtag

"I wish there was such a system so that people who have a phobia when it comes to animal slaughter get to enjoy their Eid"

However, the majority of responses were against it

"So you're going to convince me that you don't eat meat all year long?" 

Many responded by citing a religious point of view

"These ideas are against Muslim societies. Why are you even called a Muslim, if you're not going to do what God has ordered you to?!"

"It's an obligation to those who can afford it"

"Sacrificial slaughter is considered a gift to God, and a way to remind ourselves of those in need"

"There are great rewards for those who sacrifice these animals during Eid. Before you decide not to do it, read about it"

If you're going to raise this argument, why only during this time of year?

"So, it's ok for animals to be kept in cages, injected with hormones, even thrown into machines when they're still alive, and you object to them being sacrificed for Eid. We all know that when it's done the right way, this kind of slaughter does less harm to an animal than any of the others." 

"I don't see you complaining about Turkeys being slaughtered for Thanksgiving"

While many took a stand on the issue, a few thought that it's a personal matter

"It's up to you to decide whether you want to do this or not."  

Islam promotes the humane treatment of animals

As Eid Al Adha approaches, governments in countries around the world and in the Arab region have imposed strict regulations when it comes to the slaughter of sacrificial animals. 

This is because, there are strong beliefs and traditions in Islam which promote the humane treatment of animals, particularly the ones who will be slaughtered and offered to Allah. 

There are very specific regulations that have to be adhered to.  

"Attention must be paid not to harm the animal. Pushing, shoving and beating animals while slaughtering, which we sometimes see in big cities, is brutality; it has nothing to do with Islamic ethics."

“God has ordained kindness (and excellence) in everything. If the killing (of animals) is to be done, do it in the best manner, and when you slaughter, do it in the best manner by first sharpening the knife, and putting the animal at ease, (Saheeh Muslim)."