Is the Hajj performed by a minor or a slave, upon their reaching maturity or freedom, sufficient to discharge their obligation for Hajj al-Islam?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Hajj

Book 11 · Issue 2 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

There is a consensus among scholars, excluding those whose opinions are disregarded, that if a minor performs Hajj during their minority, or a slave performs Hajj during their servitude, they are still obligated to perform Hajj al-Islam upon reaching maturity or being freed, provided they have the means. This position is held by Ibn Abbas, Ata, Hasan, Nakhai, Thawri, Malik, Shafi'i, Ishaq, Abu Thawr, and the Ashab al-Ra'y. Al-Tirmidhi confirms the scholarly consensus on this matter. Evidence is cited from the Prophet (peace be upon him) through Muhammad ibn Ka'b al-Quradhi: "Any minor whose family performed Hajj for him and he died, it suffices for him; but if he reaches maturity, Hajj is due upon him. And any slave whose family performed Hajj for him and he died, it suffices for him; but if he is freed, Hajj is due upon him." Hajj is a physical act of worship performed before its obligation time, and this prior performance does not negate its obligation when the time for obligation arrives, similar to praying before the prescribed time or praying and then reaching maturity during the prescribed time.