Q: One of my friends has went for Umrah and is presently in Madinah. He intends to go to Makkah for umrah. He has a young daughter 7 or 8 years old and intends to take her to Makkah but leave her at the hotel and not take her for Umrah. What is the Islamic ruling?
A: Although Umrah is not compulsory on a child, it will be best to also let her complete the rites of Umrah. Once a mother lifted her child towards Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) and asked: Is there Haj for this child? Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) answered: Yes, but the reward (Thawaab) is for you. (Umdatul Qaari V16 P135) Some scholars are of the opinion that reward is also recorded for the minor. Since the minor and parents benefit from the Ibaadat of the minor, it will be best for the child to complete the Umrah.
A: Although Umrah is not compulsory on a child, it will be best to also let her complete the rites of Umrah. Once a mother lifted her child towards Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) and asked: Is there Haj for this child? Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi wa Sallam) answered: Yes, but the reward (Thawaab) is for you. (Umdatul Qaari V16 P135) Some scholars are of the opinion that reward is also recorded for the minor. Since the minor and parents benefit from the Ibaadat of the minor, it will be best for the child to complete the Umrah.
Allah Ta'aala knows best.
Moulana Yusuf Laher
Checked and approved by: Mufti Siraj Desai
