
Hajj Badal, the act of performing Hajj on behalf of someone else, often raises many questions. This FAQ aims to address some of the most common inquiries regarding Badal Hajj, also known as Hajje Badal, Proxy Hajj, Hajj e Badal, or Hajj al Badal, to provide clarity based on established Hajj Badal Guidelines.
The primary purpose is to fulfill the obligation of Hajj for a Muslim who is genuinely unable to perform it themselves due to permanent reasons such as chronic illness (making them Hajj al badal of an ill or disabled), debilitating old age, or for someone who has passed away having had the means but not the opportunity.
Eligibility generally includes:
The deceased who were obligated to perform Hajj.
The chronically ill or permanently disabled with no hope of recovery.
The very elderly and frail who cannot endure the journey.
Financial incapacity alone, if one is physically able, is not a reason for Hajj Badal as Hajj is not obligatory on them.
A proxy must be a sane, adult Muslim, knowledgeable about Hajj rituals, and trustworthy. It is highly preferable, and considered a condition by many scholars, that the proxy has already performed their own obligatory Hajj.
The primary intention and reward for the Hajj itself are for the beneficiary on whose behalf it is performed. The proxy receives a reward for their effort, piety, facilitating a good deed, and their own acts of worship during the journey (e.g., prayers, dhikr).
Yes, if the living person is permanently unable to perform Hajj due to reasons like chronic illness or extreme old age (e.g., Hajj al badal of an ill or disabled). It cannot be done for someone who is healthy and capable but simply wishes to delegate.
Yes, it is permissible to provide a Hadiyah (gift/stipend) to the proxy to cover their travel, accommodation, food, sacrifice, and a modest compensation for their time and effort. This should not be seen as a "wage" for the act of worship itself. Reputable Hajj Services offering Hajj by proxy will be transparent about costs.
Choose a reputable individual or organization known for their piety and adherence to Islamic teachings. Ask about their process, the qualifications of their proxies, and what confirmation of performance they provide. Seeking recommendations is advisable.
One obligatory Hajj Badal fulfills the requirement for a deceased person. However, performing additional voluntary (Nafl) Hajj e Badal for them is permissible and considered an act of virtue, with the hope of further reward for the deceased.
It is still highly recommended and an act of filial piety for children or relatives to arrange Badal Hajj for a deceased person upon whom Hajj was obligatory, even if no will was made.
Similar principles apply. Umrah Badal (also known as Umrah Al Badal or Proxy Umrah) can be performed for someone who is unable to perform Umrah themselves due to permanent reasons. The proxy performs the Umrah rituals with the intention for the beneficiary.
No, this is not a requirement. A male can perform Hajj Badal for a female, and vice-versa.
Hajj Tamattu (performing Umrah first, then Hajj) is commonly performed for Hajj with proxy because it combines both pilgrimages, but the specific type should be clarified with the service provider.
These FAQs provide general guidance. For specific personal situations or detailed Fiqh rulings related to this important Islamic Pilgrimage by proxy, it is always best to consult with a knowledgeable Islamic scholar.