Performing Hajj on Behalf of a Deceased Youth
Question: The son of my wife’s brother passed away at the age of 19 and had not performed Hajj. Is it obligatory for someone to perform Hajj on his behalf?
Summary:
Hajj Badal is a valid practice established by the Sunnah for those who are unable to perform Hajj due to death or permanent incapacity. However, it is a condition that the one performing Hajj on behalf of another must have already completed Hajj for himself. This ensures that the obligation is fulfilled properly and in accordance with the guidance of the Prophet ﷺ, as seen in the hadith of Shubrumah.
Answer:
In the name of Allah, all praise is due to Allah, and may Peace and Blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ).
It is allowed to perform Hajj for a deceased person who hasn’t performed Hajj. This is called Hajj Badal, performing Hajj on behalf of someone else.
From the Sunnah:
- Sunan Abi Dawud 1811 classed as authentic by Al-Albani.Narrated Abdullah ibn Abbas:
The Prophet (ﷺ) heard a man say: "Labbayk (always ready to obey) on behalf of Shubrumah." He asked: "Who is Shubrumah?" He replied: "A brother or relative of mine." He asked: "Have you performed Hajj on your own behalf?" He said: "No." He said: "Perform Hajj on your own behalf, then perform it on behalf of Shubrumah."
The ‘ulama (scholars) extracted from this hadith the concept of Hajj al-Badal performing Hajj on behalf of someone else. It is required that the person performing Hajj for someone else must have already performed Hajj for himself first. For Hajj Badal to be valid, the one performing it must have completed his own obligation, then he may perform it for another.
And Allah knows best.
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