Can Hajj Be Performed on Behalf of a Deceased Person?

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and a mandatory act of worship for every financially and physically capable Muslim at least once in their lifetime. But a common question arises: Can Hajj be performed for someone who has passed away? This question is deeply rooted in Islamic jurisprudence and spirituality.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the Islamic rulings, conditions, and process of performing Hajj on behalf of a deceased person (known as Badal Hajj). We’ll also include important information and preparation tips for Hajj 2025.

What is Badal Hajj?

Badal Hajj refers to performing Hajj on behalf of someone else—usually a deceased person or someone physically unable to perform it. According to Shariah, it is permissible, but certain conditions must be met.

A well-known Hadith recorded in Sahih Bukhari and Muslim narrates that a woman once asked the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) about her mother, who had intended to perform Hajj but passed away before fulfilling it. The Prophet (PBUH) replied, “Perform Hajj on behalf of your mother.”
This Hadith confirms the permissibility of Hajj for a deceased person.

Conditions for Performing Hajj on Behalf of a Deceased Person

According to Islamic jurisprudence, the following conditions apply:

• Intention of the Deceased: The deceased must have intended to perform Hajj during their lifetime, or Hajj was obligatory for them but left unfulfilled.
  
• Financial Means: Expenses for the Hajj must come from the deceased’s estate or be mentioned in their wasiyyah (will). If not, heirs can voluntarily bear the costs.
  
• Eligibility of the Performer: The person performing Hajj must be an adult Muslim in sound physical and mental condition—and must have completed their own obligatory Hajj first.
  
• Correct Intention: The performer must declare the intention at the time of entering Ihram by saying:
  “Labbayk Allahumma Hajj’an ‘an [Name of the deceased]”
  (“O Allah, I am here to perform Hajj on behalf of [name].”)
  

Why Perform Hajj for a Deceased Person?

There are several reasons why Muslims perform Hajj on behalf of the deceased:

• Fulfilling an Obligation: If the deceased was required to perform Hajj but couldn’t, this act fulfills their obligation.
  
• Reward (Thawab): Performing Hajj increases the reward for the deceased in the Hereafter.
  
• Fulfilling the Deceased’s Will: Some people include in their will that Hajj should be performed on their behalf.
  
• Family Responsibility: Loved ones often take the spiritual responsibility out of affection and respect.
  

Note: While the reward goes to the deceased, the one performing Hajj also earns blessings from Allah.

Process of Performing Hajj for a Deceased Person

The process is largely the same as regular Hajj, but with additional considerations:

1. Correct Intention: Make the intention clearly for the deceased at the time of Ihram.
   
2. Financial Arrangement: Expenses must be paid from the deceased’s estate or as per their will.
   
3. Choose a Reliable Tour Operator: Select a tour agency experienced in Badal Hajj to guide you.
   
4. Fulfill All Rituals: Complete all required steps—Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, standing at Arafat, overnight stay in Muzdalifah, stoning in Mina, etc.
   
5. Make Dua: Pray specifically for the deceased throughout the Hajj journey.
   

Preparing for Badal Hajj in 2025

Saudi Arabia has introduced new regulations for Hajj 2025, including stricter visa and registration processes. If you are planning to perform Badal Hajj, be sure to:

• Select a Reliable Tour Operator: They must comply with Saudi Hajj regulations and have experience with proxy Hajj.
  
• Plan Finances: Ensure budget for travel, accommodation, and other expenses.
  
• Take Ihram Training: Learn the rules and rituals of Ihram and Hajj thoroughly.
  
• Spiritual Readiness: Hajj is a sacred journey—purify your intention and place full trust in Allah.
  

Hajj Training for You

Frequently Asked Questions About Hajj for the Deceased

Q: Can I perform Hajj for someone who didn’t express intention during their life?
A: Yes—if Hajj was obligatory for them and they were financially able, it is valid even without explicit intention. However, it is preferable if they did intend.

Q: Do I need to have performed my own Hajj first?
A: Yes—according to the Hanafi school, a person must complete their own obligatory Hajj before performing on behalf of someone else.

Q: Who receives the reward of Badal Hajj?
A: The deceased receives the primary reward, but the performer also earns blessings from Allah.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect Intention: Not specifying the name of the deceased in your Niyyah.
  
• Using Unapproved Tour Operators: May cause logistical or ritual issues.
  
• Violating Ihram Rules: Lack of knowledge can lead to mistakes—training is crucial.
  

Conclusion

Performing Hajj for a deceased person is permissible in Islam and considered a noble act of worship. But it must be done following strict guidelines—especially in terms of finances, intentions, and the performer’s qualifications.
As Hajj 2025 approaches, prepare with sincerity, choose a qualified tour operator, and educate yourself on the process. This journey may serve as a powerful way to bring peace and reward to your loved one in the Hereafter.
Are you planning to perform Hajj on behalf of a deceased loved one? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments. Visit our website regularly for more Islamic insights and share this post with family and friends.