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Hajj Rules For Minors

Islam allows children to participate in and perform Hajj, and their pilgrimage is accepted and rewarded. However, a Hajj performed by a minor does not fulfil the obligatory Hajj required once a person reaches adulthood. Certain rules and responsibilities apply when minors perform Hajj.

Is Hajj Obligatory For Children

Hajj is not obligatory for minors who have not reached the age of puberty. The sacred journey becomes obligatory only after reaching puberty, sanity and capability. If a child performs Hajj, it is considered voluntary (nafl) and highly rewarding for both children and parents.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“The pen has been lifted from three: the sleeper until he awakens, the child until he reaches puberty, and the insane until he regains sanity.”
(Abu Dawood)

Reward of Hajj Performed by a Child

A child who performs Hajj receives a reward
The guardian also receives a reward for assisting the child
However, the child must perform another Hajj after adulthood if able

This is based on the hadith where a woman lifted a child and asked:

“Is there Hajj for this one?”
The Prophet ﷺ replied:
“Yes, and you will have a reward.”
(Muslim)

Role of Guardian on Minor Performing Hajj

The guardian (parent or legal caretaker) carries major responsibility:

Makes intention (niyyah) on behalf of a child who cannot discern
Ensures the child avoids prohibited acts of Ihram
Guides or carries the child during rituals
Offers fidya or dam if required due to intentional violations

The guardian should be capable, knowledgeable, and attentive.

Ihram Rules For Minors

Children Below the Age of Discernment (usually under 7)

The guardian should make an intention on behalf of the child
The child should be dressed in Ihram (or appropriate clothing for girls)
Guardian recites Talbiyah on the child’s behalf
The child may be carried during Tawaf and Sa’i

Children Who Can Discern (usually 7 and above)

Child makes intention themselves
Recites Talbiyah
Performs rituals with guidance
Must follow Ihram restrictions as much as reasonably possible

Tawaf and Sa’i for Children

The guardian should carry the child during Tawaf and Sa’i
According to many scholars, one Tawaf and one Sa’i may suffice for both child and guardian
If the child walks independently, the Tawaf and Sa’i are valid
Proper care of the child should be taken to maintain safety due to crowds

Standing at Arafah for Minors

Presence at Arafah is required for a valid Hajj
A child must be present during the time of Arafah
Even sleeping or being carried counts as presence

Stoning the Jamarat (Ramy)

A child may stone the Jamarat themselves if capable
If not, the guardian may stone on the child’s behalf
Safety takes priority over completion by the child

Hair Cutting or Shaving (Halq/Qasr)

After completing rituals, the child’s hair must be:
1. Shaved (preferred for boys)
2. Or trimmed from all parts of the head
For girls, a small portion of hair is clipped

This marks the exit from the Ihram.

A child’s Hajj is rewarded, but does not replace the obligatory Hajj after adulthood.