'Performing Hajj Without a Permit is a Sin'
RIYADH, April 27: The General Secretariat of the Council of Senior Scholars in Saudi Arabia reiterated its statement from April of last year, which mandates that individuals wishing to perform Hajj must obtain a permit. The statement emphasized that 'it is not permissible to perform Hajj without a permit, and anyone who does so is considered a sinner.'
In a statement published by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), Secretary General of the Council of Senior Scholars, Sheikh Dr. Fahd Al-Majed, explained that the fatwa issued by the Council was based on several pieces of evidence and Sharia principles, particularly the Islamic law's focus on facilitating worship and removing hardships for worshippers.
Al-Majed clarified that the requirement for Hajj permits was introduced to help organize the large crowds of pilgrims, ensuring that they can perform their rituals safely and peacefully. He affirmed that this is a valid Sharia objective supported by religious evidence.
He also noted that government agencies responsible for organizing Hajj create a seasonal plan based on the number of authorized pilgrims, stating that 'the more the number of pilgrims matches the authorized limit, the better the quality of services provided.'
Al-Majed highlighted that adhering to the permit is part of obeying the ruler in what is right, citing numerous texts that emphasize the duty to obey the ruler's rightful orders and the prohibition of disobedience. He further stated that adhering to the permit brings reward, while disobedience is sinful.
The Council of Senior Scholars also emphasized that obtaining a permit helps avoid significant harm and risks, such as threats to the safety and health of pilgrims, the quality of services provided, and the logistics of transportation and grouping at the holy sites. The Council explained that the requirement to obtain a permit not only affects the individual pilgrim but also impacts other pilgrims who have adhered to the system, urging adherence as a sign of reverence for God. The regulations, it said, were established purely for the benefit of the pilgrims.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Kuwait Times
a day ago
- Kuwait Times
Kuwaiti hajj mission fully prepared as pilgrims reach holy sites
Kuwait mobilizes government and volunteer efforts to support 8,000 pilgrims MAKKAH: The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Head of the Kuwaiti hajj Mission Dr Bader Al-Mutairi, announced on Tuesday that all Kuwaiti pilgrims—estimated at approximately 8,000—have arrived in Saudi Arabia as part of 60 organized hajj convoys. The announcement comes as preparations intensify for the start of the annual pilgrimage. In a statement to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Dr Al-Mutairi said that mission teams from various participating entities are operating at full capacity and are providing services around the clock at the holy sites to ensure the comfort and safety of Kuwaiti pilgrims. He added that preparations at the key pilgrimage sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah have been completed in advance, underscoring the mission's goal of facilitating a safe and organized environment for pilgrims to carry out their religious duties. Dr Al-Mutairi urged all Kuwaiti pilgrims to adhere to official guidelines issued by the Saudi authorities and to cooperate with the supervisory and service teams accompanying the Kuwaiti hajj mission. The mission includes several government and NGOs tasked with supporting pilgrims. These include the Ministries of Islamic Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Interior, Information, and Health, along with the General Fire Force, the Public Authority for Food and Nutrition, the Public Authority for Youth, and the Kuwait Red Crescent Society (KRCS). In a related development, KRCS Secretary-General Fahad Al-Mandeel confirmed the organization's participation in this year's hajj mission. KRCS volunteers will provide humanitarian aid, first aid services, and logistical support to pilgrims. Al-Mandeel told KUNA that both male and female volunteers from the society will take part in the mission as part of KRCS's ongoing humanitarian role in serving pilgrims. He highlighted the society's continued collaboration with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and other official bodies. He also commended the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its extensive efforts in organizing the hajj season, noting the early preparations, high-quality services, and coordination with international hajj missions, including Kuwait's. According to Al-Mandeel, the KRCS delegation will deliver field medical services in coordination with Kuwaiti medical teams, assist elderly and ill pilgrims, and distribute necessary medical and informational materials. This is part of a broader, pre-planned program aimed at supporting pilgrims throughout the season. He praised the dedication of KRCS volunteers, describing their participation as both a national and humanitarian responsibility. Al-Mandeel concluded by thanking all cooperating entities and expressing hope for a safe and spiritually fulfilling hajj for all pilgrims. — KUNA
Arab Times
a day ago
- Arab Times
Kuwait Cemeteries See Crowds As Families Pay Tribute On Eid
KUWAIT CITY, June 6: From the early hours of the morning on the first day of Eid al-Fitr, the air resonated with the unified takbirs and praises of God Almighty, marking the end of Ramadan and the beginning of one of the most cherished festivals in the Islamic calendar. As prayers were offered and greetings exchanged, families across the country embraced long-standing traditions of visiting relatives and strengthening the ties of kinship — a deeply rooted custom that defines the spirit of Eid. Eid is not only a time for festive gatherings and communal joy but also an opportunity for reflection and remembrance. Islam encourages believers to uphold familial and social connections, extending even to those who have passed away. For many, the holiday becomes a moment to visit the graves of departed loved ones — family members, friends, and close companions — offering prayers and recitations from the Holy Quran for their souls. In cities and towns across the nation, cemeteries saw a significant number of visitors who came to pay their respects. Families stood by gravesides, reciting Al-Fatihah and other verses, seeking forgiveness and mercy for those who are no longer with them. Despite the passage of years, the memories of those who shared past Eids remained vivid in the hearts of their loved ones. The act of visiting graves during Eid is a gesture of spiritual continuity and devotion, a way to honor the deceased while reaffirming faith. It is a reminder that love and connection endure beyond life, and that remembrance is a sacred part of celebration.
Arab Times
a day ago
- Arab Times
Spirit of Faith and Sacrifice Marks Eid al-Adha Celebrations in Kuwait
KUWAIT CITY, June 6: A large number of citizens and residents gathered to perform Eid al-Adha prayers at 57 mosques and prayer grounds prepared by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, in collaboration with several government bodies, including the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Health, the Fire Department, and many volunteers. The designated prayer venues saw a significant turnout of worshippers in an atmosphere marked by faith, discipline, and careful organization, all aimed at ensuring public safety and allowing the rituals to be carried out smoothly and peacefully. Preachers emphasized the values of tolerance, adherence to Islamic morals, and the spirit of joy and happiness associated with the occasion. They also highlighted the importance of sacrifice as one of the most virtuous acts of worship during these blessed days. The Eid prayers were conducted with strong coordination between the relevant authorities to support worshippers and respond promptly to any emergencies.
