Sadaqah or Nafl Hajj

Initially, Imam Abu Hanifah (Rahmatullaahi Alayh) held the opinion that giving Sadaqah was better than performing a Nafl Hajj. According to the Ulama, what is meant here is that giving the sum that a person would spend in Nafl Hajj in charity is better than performing a Nafl Hajj itself. However, when Imam Abu Hanîfah (Rahmatullaahi Alayh) performed Hajj, he underwent through the difficulties in the journey. Upon completion of the Hajj, he changed his mind and issued a fatwa in favour of the superiority of performing a Nafl Hajj over giving Sadaqah. According to the Ulama, the second view of Imam Abu Hanifah (Rahmatullaahi Alayh) is not a general verdict that applies in all circumstances. For example, giving money to help those in difficulty can outweigh performing a Nafl Hajj. Similarly, helping the pious and the descendants of Nabi (Sallalaahu Alaihi Wasallam) who are in difficulty is much better than performing a Nafl Hajj. Some people may have difficulty in understanding this Mas'ala. This is perfectly normal because there are certain things that are only understood by certain people. It is not within everyone’s reach.

Certain things may seem trivial, but circumstances can make it more valuable than something else. So, something’s value and importance are given according to the context and the circumstance that one is in. For example, a thirsty person who is in the desert will value a glass of water moreover the value of a chain of gold, diamonds and pearls which is dangling around his neck.

Similarly, each action begets its merit according to its context. Performing a Nafl Hajj and giving Sadaqah also have their merits as we know it. But, it is the circumstance and the situation that will give priority of one thing over the other. Nonetheless, this decision can only be made by those who have the knowledge of Deen. This is not the work of those who are lack expertise in the field of Deen.

[English version of "Sadaqah ou Hajj Nafil" -  Al Jamiat Vol.8 No.4]