Question:
What do the scholars and experts of Shari’ah say regarding Hajj and I wondered if you were able to advise. I have £13,000 in savings; I have a mortgage remaining of around £30,000 which I am saving towards paying off. Is Hajj fardh upon me? Or does it become fardh upon me once I have cleared my debt (mortgage)? My husband has more savings than this but will not go to hajj yet, no one else in my family can afford to go. Where does this leave me?
Answer:
Your question about the obligation of Hajj in your financial situation is a significant one, and I will try to provide a clear and concise answer based on Islamic principles.
In Islam, Hajj becomes fardh (obligatory) upon a Muslim when they meet certain conditions, which include:
- Islam: Being a Muslim.
- Sanity: Being of sound mind.
- Maturity: Being an adult.
- Freedom: Being free and not enslaved.
- Financial and physical ability: Having the means to perform Hajj, including the financial capability to cover the expenses of the journey and to provide for dependents during the absence.
The financial ability, or “istitaa’ah,” specifically means that one should have enough savings to cover the expenses of Hajj and to ensure that their dependents are taken care of during their absence. Additionally, it includes being free from significant debt that one cannot manage while performing Hajj.
Given your situation:
- You have £13,000 in savings.
- You have a remaining mortgage of around £30,000.
Key Considerations:
- Mortgage as Debt: Islamic scholars generally consider the nature and terms of the debt. If the mortgage is structured such that it is payable over a long period with manageable instalments and paying it off does not cause significant financial strain, this debt will not prevent you from performing Hajj and it will be fardh upon you.
- Savings for Hajj: With £13,000 in savings, you need to determine if this amount is sufficient to cover the expenses of Hajj. The cost of Hajj can vary greatly depending on the country of departure, the services chosen, and other logistical factors. If £13,000 is adequate for you to perform Hajj and you can ensure that your dependents will be cared for in your absence, then again you may meet the financial criterion for Hajj.
- Consulting a Scholar: Given the complexities involved in regard to your Mahram and your husband choosing not to go despite having the savings. It is advisable to consult a local scholar to stress the importance of this obligation and detriment in unnecessarily delaying it.
To summarise, If your savings are sufficient to cover the costs of Hajj and your mortgage payments do not pose a significant financial burden that would prevent you from meeting your basic needs or those of your dependents, Hajj will fardh upon you.
May Allah ﷻ guide us all and make it easy for you to fulfil your obligations.
This Fatwa is written by Dr.Hafiz Muhammad Munir Al-Azhari