What is required if a traveler is uncertain about the alignment parallel to the nearest Miqat on their route?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
If the alignment parallel to the nearest Miqat on the route is unknown, precaution must be taken by assuming Ihram from a point further back, ensuring that the boundary of the Miqat is not crossed without being in the state of Ihram. This is because assuming Ihram before the Miqat is permissible, whereas delaying it beyond the Miqat is not allowed. Therefore, precaution dictates performing that which is certain. Ihram is not obligatory until certainty exists that the parallel point has been reached, as the original state is non-obligation, which is not negated by doubt.
Supporting text
If a person assumes Ihram and subsequently learns they crossed the alignment of one of the Miqats without being in Ihram, a penalty (Damm) is due. If doubt exists regarding which of two Miqats is nearer, the ruling applied is the same as that for uncertainty in the preceding issue. If the two Miqats are equidistant in proximity, Ihram must be assumed from the alignment parallel to the further one.