The question of a mother going for Hajj in the company of her daughter and her husband (the son-in-law) is common, particularly for women who are separated, divorced, or widowed and do not have adult sons or a husband to accompany them.
Islamic scholars provide clear guidance on who qualifies as a Mahram (guardian) and the conditions under which a woman may travel for pilgrimage.
The Status of the Son-in-Law
In Islamic jurisprudence, a son-in-law is considered a permanent Mahram to his mother-in-law.
- Permanent Relationship: Once a man marries a woman, her mother becomes unlawful for him to marry forever. This establishes a permanent bond of Mahram.
- The Ruling: Consequently, the mother is fully permitted to travel for Hajj in the company of her daughter and her son-in-law. His presence satisfies the requirement for a male guardian.
Safe Company and Trustworthy Groups
Even in the absence of a specific male relative, many scholars, particularly from the Shafi’i and Maliki schools of thought, allow women to travel for the obligatory Hajj under the condition of “safe company” (Suhbah Aminah).
- Definition: This typically refers to a trustworthy group of women or a general caravan where safety is assured and the road is secure.
- Application: Therefore, if a woman has trustworthy companions (like her daughter and son-in-law) and the journey is safe, the pilgrimage is valid and permissible.
