Should the meat of `Aqiqah be distributed cooked or uncooked?

Q: We live in the desert area of Jizan. We do not understand the proper meaning of the Hadith narrated concerning offering `Aqiqah (sacrifice for a newborn). As a result, we do not know about the rulings related to it: whether it should be divided in small portions and distributed to the poor as an act of Sadaqah (voluntary charity)? On the seventh day of the birth of a newborn, about ten sheep are slaughtered and a grand feast is held. Invitations are extended to friends, near and distant relatives who give money gifts to the person who is offering `Aqiqah in return for the loss sustained as a result of sacrificing this great number of sheep. People also engage in an all-day ceremonial demonstration of gun firing.

A: The meat of `Aqiqah can be distributed to (Part No. 11; Page No. 444) the poor, neighbors, relatives, and friends either cooked or raw. The newborn's family may also assign themselves a share from the meat. The person offering `Aqiqah may also invite the poor and rich to a home-made feast. The ceremonial demonstration of gun firing associated with this occasion is a customary practice introduced by people and it is therefore better to avoid it.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.