Factors that make Hajj obligatory for a person

 Hajj is a necessary pillar of the Islamic faith whose obligation is clearly mentioned in the Holy Quran for Muslims. That’s why millions of Muslim pilgrims arrive every year through cheap umrah packages 2023 for the holy rituals in Makkah, Saudia Arabia. 

Hajj rituals are observed on an annual basis; from the 8th day of Dhu-al-Hijjah till the 12th. During this period of five days, pilgrims visit a lot of different places, offering a variety of rituals there – as specified in the Sunnah of our Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (SAWW). 

The obligation of Hajj.

When it comes to hajj performance, it isn’t obligatory for every Muslim but for those who possess the means for it. Thus, there are some conditions to be met. 

Here’s a brief description of the factors that make hajj obligatory for a person. 

Being a Muslim.

Since hajj is a part of the Islamic religion, it goes without saying that pilgrims must have embraced Shahadah i.e., became a Muslim in order to travel for the hajj pilgrimage. 

Saudi Arabia doesn’t allow non-Muslims to enter the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. Thus, even if a person has a non-Muslim name, he/she must also be required to submit the Shahadah Certificate issued by the local Islamic center or masjid at the time of hajj visa application i.e., confirming that the applicant is a Muslim.

Accountability.

A non-pubescent child isn’t obligated to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage, however, in case if he/she does so, it remains a valid and rewardable act. In fact, even Hajj performed by a one-day-old child remains valid through his guardian i.e., the parent/person who helps him perform the integrals and requisites of Hajj. So, Hajj is only religiously obligatory for an Adult Muslim i.e., who is accountable for his deeds. 

Physical and Mental capability.

Physical fitness and mental capability are significantly essential when it comes to the question of the obligation of hajj for a person. A person wishing to travel for a hajj pilgrimage not only has to be mentally sane but also, he must possess the bodily energy to perform all of its rituals by himself. 

However, for aged/ill pilgrims, the wheelchair facility can also be availed. 

Remember that for a person who isn’t mentally fit, hajj isn’t obligatory in the first place even if he/she has the financial means for it.

Being Independent.

Another deciding factor for the obligation of hajj for a Muslim is his/her independence. In other words, hajj is not obligatory on a salve. Since the concept of slaves doesn’t exist in today’s world, the term can also be used to define the travel independence of a person i.e., the political restrictions imposed on citizens of different countries. 

Having the Financial Means.

Last but not the least, hajj only becomes obligatory for a person when he/she has all the means to afford it. Thus, paying for all of one’s travel, living, visa, and accommodation expenses for the entire period of Hajj while also providing enough provisions for the family (if they are not coming along on hajj). 

These are some of the necessary factors to know about for the obligation of hajj.