When performing Hajj for others (Hajj al-Badal), particularly for deceased parents, questions often arise regarding which types of Hajj are permissible and whether the standard rituals, such as the sacrifice (Hady), still apply.
Islamic scholars clarify that acting as a proxy does not diminish the ritual obligations; the Hajj performed on behalf of another follows the same fundamental rules as a Hajj performed for oneself.
1. Permissibility of Hajj Tamattu’
A proxy is fully permitted to perform Hajj Tamattu’ on behalf of a deceased person.
- Definition:Hajj Tamattu’ involves performing ‘Umrah during the months of Hajj, exiting the state of Ihram, and then re-entering Ihram for Hajj on the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah.
- The Ruling: There is nothing wrong with choosing this mode of Hajj for the deceased. The flexibility to choose between Tamattu’ (interrupted), Qiran (combined), or Ifrad (single) remains available to the proxy just as it would be for their own pilgrimage.
2. Obligation of Sacrifice (Hady)
If the proxy chooses to perform Hajj Tamattu’ or Hajj Qiran, the obligation to offer a sacrifice remains binding.
- The Ruling: Performing Hajj on behalf of another takes the same rulings as performing it for oneself. Therefore, if the mode of Hajj selected requires a sacrificial animal (Hady), the proxy must slaughter the animal.
- Responsibility: The cost of this sacrifice is typically covered by the funds provided for the proxy Hajj. It is an integral part of the rites for Tamattu’ and cannot be omitted simply because the Hajj is for a deceased individual.
