Combining Qurbaani with Hajj

I am now of the opinion, however, that why should we wait for that time [Zul Hijjah]? If the occasion presents itself, the applied laws (Ahkaam-e-Far’iyyah) of Qurbaani will be spoken on then. As far as the elementary issues are concerned, that should be spoken on today.

My first opinion has thus been amended slightly. Therefore, my intention is to speak on both today. For this reason, I have selected an Aayat in which both are mentioned, regardless of Qurbaani not being particularly associated with these days [the days of Shawwaal], as Hajj is.

Then Hajj is mentioned in the Aayat primarily, whilst Qurbaani is mentioned secondarily. Nevertheless, both Qurbaani and Hajj share virtues per se. Hence, it seems appropriate to speak on both, concurrently.

Thereafter it occurred to me that in the lectures of Ramadhaan, the topics of Fasting, Taraaweeh, I’tikaaf, Laylatul Qadr and finally regarding Eid were mentioned. However, all these pertained to bodily acts of worship, whereas Ibaadaat are of three kinds: purely bodily, purely monetary, and bodily and monetary combined.

Speaking on Hajj and Qurbaani which are bodily and monetary combinations for now, will leave one kind outstanding. What is that? It is the purely monetary, such as Zakaat. The occasion to speak on it has not yet arisen, hence it seems only right that it should not be left out.

By virtue of its [Zakaat’s] relationship with Hajj and Qurbaani, taking its monetary status into consideration, it will also be touched on. Sadaqa-e-Fitr, Zakaat, Khums, Ushr, etc. all are included, and the same exclusive style will be adopted for these too. Thus, it [Zakaat, i.e. the purely monetary acts of worship] will also be included today.

[Note: Sadaqa-e-Fitr or Fitrah is the charity incumbent on the Day of Eidul Fitr. Khums is a fifth of the spoils of war given to the poor, and Ushr is a tenth of land produce given to the poor, from land which was distributed to the Mujaahideen.]

Today’s talk will therefore have three themes; one a purely monetary act of worship, one a combination of bodily and monetary which is further classified into two: one Hajj, the second Qurbaani. We thus have three. And purely bodily acts of worship have been mentioned in Ramadhaan. Thus, all the types will then be covered.

To summarize, Hajj, Qurbaani and monetary spending will be spoken on for this occasion. All this will come to be known shortly.

Another Reason for Combining Qurbaani and Hajj in One Bayaan

In any case, that was one reason for combining Hajj and Qurbaani. The second affinity between the two, for them to be combined, is that just as the beginning of Hajj is from Shawwaal in some respects, that is in respect of the Ihraam, whilst in regard to the major elements its conclusion is in Zul Hijjah, similarly, some aspects of Qurbaani can be before Zul Hijjah. Hence, fattening of the Qurbaani animals is an act ordained and which is possible, generally, by purchasing before Zul Hijjah. In other words, the Qurbaani animal is purchased early and fattened. Thus, prior arrangements are desired and called upon.

Fattening of the Qurbaani animals will therefore be beforehand, just as Ihraam is before the Hajj.

Furthermore, the journey for some Hujjaaj will be in advance, particularly in our country as setting out in Shawwaal is common, whilst some leave later, in Zul Qa’dah. This coincidence is amazing, that in regard to the journey too, Hajj commences from Shawwaal. Precisely for this reason I speak on it mainly in Shawwaal so that those intending to go for Haj can prepare.

Courage in the Current Situation and Shar’i Tawakkul

Although, it did not seem appropriate to speak on it this year purely on the abovementioned basis, as it was fixed in my mind that the route to Hajj was closed [due to the outbreak of World War Ⅰ]. If it is not closed, it is undoubtedly risky. Thus, what could the motive be in giving encouragement in such a situation!?

However, through reliable sources it has become known that people are going. Neither is the route closed, nor is there any danger. Yes, there definitely is some difference to before. But the risk is not great. Such a weak risk should not be considered. Such a risk lies in even going from one’s home to the bazaar, for there is a possibility of an accident on the way.

In short, there is no danger. The situation is calm, if your heart is strong and firm. Look! The authorities have given permission. If the risk was high, the authorities would not have given permission. Yes, out of goodwill and caution, they have made it known that they are not responsible [for any misfortune].

Now, hearts differ. Some are of the opinion that since the authorities are not taking any responsibility, Allah forbid what may happen! [This was during World War Ⅰ and hence the consternation of people and talk of the route being blocked or dangerous.]

But this is not courage. Even if they [the authorities] have given the assurance [of the route being open and travel possible], had there been no responsibility from on top, then no one would be able to do anything. In other words, assume the authorities give assurance, but Allah does not, and the ocean becomes stormy resulting in the ship sinking, then of what use is the assurance of the authorities?

The duty of the responsible authorities was merely to disclose the actual situation. We should be grateful to them that they have not concealed from us even a slight apprehension.

Now, you should inculcate in your heart courage and composure and ascertain from the Law of the Shariah what is the position of going in the current situation. The Shar’i Law is that when safety is overwhelming, and danger is trivial, the Hajj is Fardh. We see that presently there is greater safety, and people are going steadily.

Now regarding where to get a ticket and when will the ship set sail; well, I have not made inquiries. You can make the necessary inquiries. If you meet anyone from Bombay [now Mumbai] then ascertain from that person. The best form of inquiry is to go to Bombay oneself and find out, so that you are not left with any doubt. It is not a difficult place to go to. Here, you may only get old news, whilst there you will receive the latest news.

If you cannot go there and you are unacquainted with anyone from there, then I will give you the address of a pious person. Haji Ahmed Jaan Saheb, merchant of Shahi Bazaar, Saharanpur. That’s the address. Make inquiries from him. I have given the address for this reason that if anyone is eager and determined, he should not lapse into uncertainty and become worried. He can make the necessary inquiries and set out.

There you have it! This piece of information serves the purpose of everything. I am not saying that you should have such tawakkul [trust in Allah Ta’ala] that you should jump into the ocean! No! Rather, utilize the means, but do not go overboard, for nothing in this world can be achieved in that manner. You won’t be able to even eat, for there is a possibility that someone poisoned the food. These kinds of possibilities are therefore rejected.

Yes, a possibility which arises from proof is worthy of consideration. However, the proof should be weighty, not petty. If proof is substantial, then there is nothing wrong in acting accordingly.

In any case, this is a world of material agencies, thus the command is to resort to the agencies in a balanced manner. Accordingly, it is stated regarding Hajj:  وَتَزَوَّدُوْا.That is, “Take along provisions”. For the weak, this is compulsory because by having money with you, you will be at ease. Otherwise, your heart will be uneasy and then what joy are you going to experience?

From this is proven that employing the means is a Divine Command, hence I am saying that in the first instance go to Bombay. If you cannot go to Bombay, then inquire from someone there by post. And if you are unaware of anyone there, then enquire from Haji Ahmed Jaan Saheb of Saharanpur. But please provide stamps for the reply. Although he will reply even if there are no stamps enclosed, it is but highly improper to give someone unnecessary trouble over something which you can bear yourself.

In any case, I have pointed out this plan of action by virtue of which the particulars of the journey can be ascertained. Now, the obstacle is out of the way. Since Hajj is possible in the current climate, the relevancy of this bayaan and encouraging others are thus self-evident.

As it is proven that Hajj is possible, it is only right to speak on it so that people are encouraged and inspired, and those upon whom Hajj is Fardh leave without further ado.

All said and done, the commencement of our journey [of Hajj] is from Shawwaal.

(To be continued, Insha Allah)