Haji by proxy (Haji al-Badal) allows someone to perform Haji on behalf of a person who cannot do it themselves due to permanent illness, old age, or death. The proxy must have already performed their own wajib Haji first. They enter ihram with the intention for the represented person. All rituals are performed normally. The reward goes to the represented person.
Proxy Haji is permitted for: permanent illness/disability, elderly too frail to travel, or a deceased person who had not performed wajib Haji. NOT permitted for: healthy persons, temporary illness, or those who simply lack funds.
The proxy must: be Muslim, have performed their own wajib Haji, be trustworthy and knowledgeable about Haji rituals, and agree willingly. A woman can perform on behalf of a man and vice versa. Family members are preferred but not required.
These are the most frequent errors pilgrims make during this stage of Hajj.
Scholarly references supporting this guidance from established Islamic sources.
At the miqat, the proxy makes the intention: 'Labbayk Allahumma Hajjan an [full name].' If the proxy forgets the name during Talbiyah, having made the intention in the heart is sufficient.
The proxy performs every ritual exactly as for their own Haji: ihram, Mina, Arafah, Muzdalifah, stoning, sacrifice, shaving, Tawaf al-Ifadah, sa'i, Tawaf al-Wida. The proxy should make doa for both the represented person and themselves.
Expenses should be borne by the represented person or their estate. The proxy should not profit financially. If compensation for time/effort is offered, it is boleh. The sacrifice cost is also from the represented person's funds.