The Obligation of Hajj and the Warning for Those Who Neglect It

Introduction

Hajj is not just a sacred journey but a divinely mandated obligation upon every capable Muslim. It stands as one of the five pillars of Islam and must be fulfilled by all who meet the necessary conditions. Despite its spiritual significance and immense reward, delaying or ignoring this duty can have grave consequences, as evidenced by clear statements from the Qur’an, Hadith, and the sayings of the Companions.

A Clear Command from the Qur’an

“In it are clear signs, including the standing place of Abraham. Whoever enters it shall be safe. And pilgrimage to the House is a duty owed to Allah by all people who can find a way to do so. But if anyone disbelieves, then surely Allah is free of need from all the worlds.”
(Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:97)

This verse makes it explicit that performing Hajj is an obligation for all who have the means and ability. Those who reject this duty are warned with stern consequences—Allah is in no need of those who turn away.

The Prophetic Declaration

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ once addressed his companions:

"Allah has made Hajj obligatory upon you, so perform Hajj."

A companion, Aqra’ bin Habis رضي الله عنه, inquired:

“O Messenger of Allah, must we perform it every year?”
He repeated the question three times. The Prophet ﷺ remained silent and then replied:

“Had I said yes, it would have become obligatory every year, and you would not be able to bear it.”
(Sahih Muslim)

This Hadith emphasises that while Hajj is mandatory, it is required only once in a lifetime for those who are able.

The Urgency of Performing Hajj

Once a person has the capability (Istita’ah), it is essential not to delay Hajj unnecessarily. According to Islamic teachings:

• It is strongly recommended to perform Hajj without delay once the means are available.

• If one is able, they should perform Hajj at least once every five years.

A Stern Warning for the Neglectful

There is severe warning for those who possess the ability to perform Hajj but remain preoccupied with worldly affairs and die without fulfilling this obligation.

Sayings of the Companions

Sayyiduna Umar ibn Al-Khattab رضي الله عنه once stated:

“I wish to impose the Jizyah (a tax levied on non-Muslims) on those who, despite having the means, do not perform Hajj. By Allah, they are not Muslims!”

This powerful statement illustrates the seriousness of neglecting this pillar of Islam.

Understanding “Istita’ah” – The Conditions for Obligation

The term Istita’ah (ability) encompasses several essential factors that determine when Hajj becomes obligatory:

1. Financial Capability

This includes having sufficient provision and travel expenses for the entire journey to Makkah and back.

2. Safe Passage

The journey must be safe and without significant threat. Scholars have added this condition to ensure physical security during travel.

3. Presence of a Mahram for Women

A woman must be accompanied by a Mahram (a male guardian) for Hajj or any journey that spans:

• At least one day and one night, or

• Up to three days and nights, as stated by some scholars.

Without a Mahram, a woman is not obliged to perform Hajj.

4. Physical Capability

Physical strength is part of Istita’ah. If a person cannot endure the journey, even by riding, they are not required to perform Hajj themselves.

Hajj on Behalf of Others (Hajj-e-Badal)

If someone is elderly, chronically ill, or physically incapable, they can appoint another person to perform Hajj on their behalf. This is known as Hajj-e-Badal.

Rulings on Hajj-e-Badal:

• A man can perform Hajj on behalf of a woman, and vice versa.

• A woman can perform Hajj on behalf of another woman or a man.

• The one performing Hajj-e-Badal must have already completed their own obligatory Hajj.

Conclusion

The obligation of Hajj is firmly established in Islamic law, and its deliberate neglect is a serious matter with dire spiritual consequences. Those who are physically, financially, and logistically able must not delay this sacred duty. May Allah grant us all the means, intention, and opportunity to perform Hajj and earn His everlasting pleasure.