Is intention (Niyyah) a condition for the Tawaf al-Ziyarah (Farewell Circumambulation)?
Chapter on the Description of Hajj
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
Intention is a condition for the Tawaf al-Ziyarah, requiring that the pilgrim specifically intend it for this obligatory circumambulation. This is the position held by Ishaq, Ibn al-Qasim (a companion of Malik), and Ibn al-Mundhir. The evidence relies upon the Prophet's saying: "Actions are but by intentions, and every man shall have but what he intended," and because the Prophet named this act 'prayer' (salat), which is unanimously agreed to require intention for validity.
Supporting text
Al-Thawri, Al-Shafi'i, and the proponents of the Hanafi school hold that the Tawaf is valid even if the pilgrim does not specifically intend the required obligatory Tawaf.