What is the ruling for a person who is able to reach the Haram but is prevented from reaching 'Arafah?
Chapter on What the Muhrim Must Avoid and What is Permissible for Him
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
A person who is able to reach the Haram (Ka'bah) but is prevented from reaching 'Arafah has the option to annul the intention of Hajj and change it to 'Umrah. No sacrificial animal (*hadi*) is incumbent upon him because permission for this change was granted without obstruction, making it even more applicable when obstruction occurs. If this person had already performed Tawaf and Sa'i for arrival (*Tawaf al-Qudum*) and was then prevented, or became ill such that Hajj was missed, he is to be released from the state of Ihram by performing another Tawaf and Sa'i, because the initial Tawaf and Sa'i were not intended for 'Umrah. He is not required to renew Ihram. This is the position held by Al-Shafi'i and Abu Thawr.
Supporting text
If Hajj is missed due to obstruction, the ruling is the same as for one who misses Hajj without obstruction. Muhammad ibn al-Hasan and a narration from Ahmad hold that one is not considered legally prevented (*muhsar*) while in Makkah.