Is it permissible for a person in Ihram to point out or indicate game to others?

Chapter on What the Muhrim Must Avoid and What is Permissible for Him

Al-Mughni

Book of Hajj

Book 11 · Issue 3 · Bab 3

Open in Qurani

Primary text

It is obligatory for a person in Ihram to refrain from pointing toward game or indicating its location to others. This is based on the hadith of Abu Qatadah, where the Prophet (peace be upon him) asked his companions, who were in Ihram, after they spotted a wild donkey: "Did any of you command them to carry it, or point to it?". The consensus among them was that signaling was forbidden, as evidenced by their desire not to inform the Prophet (peace be upon him) while he was occupied mending his sandals, indicating they believed he would disapprove. The Prophet's question implies that if any of them had done so, the prohibition would have applied. The act is prohibited because it constitutes assisting in a prohibited action for someone in Ihram, similar to setting a trap.