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In Islam, worship represents a direct connection between the servant and their Creator, expressing faith and obedience. However, deputation in worship is permitted under specific conditions and rules, considering circumstances that may hinder a person from performing worship themselves, such as illness or incapacity.
Among the notable acts of worship that allow deputation is Hajj, where a capable person may perform Hajj on behalf of someone unable to do so.
However, other acts of worship, such as prayer and fasting, do not permit deputation except in rare cases explicitly mentioned in Islamic texts.
This article explains the types of worship that allow or disallow deputation, highlighting the associated Islamic rules.
Deputation in worship is one of the easements permitted in Islam under certain circumstances, especially in cases of incapacity or inability.
Notable acts of worship that allow deputation include:
Hajj: A capable person may perform Hajj on behalf of someone unable to due to chronic illness or old age, provided the deputy has already performed Hajj for themselves.
Zakat: It is permissible to delegate someone trustworthy to pay Zakat on behalf of the owner.
Fasting: Deputation is allowed through feeding a poor person for each missed day of fasting in cases of permanent inability.
These rulings highlight Islam’s flexibility in addressing the needs of its followers.
Deputation is not permitted for all acts of worship. Worships that do not allow deputation are those requiring personal intent and effort, reflecting the individual’s direct connection with their Creator.
Notable examples include:
Prayer: Deputation in prayer is invalid, as it requires personal intention and spiritual presence.
Qur’an recitation and remembrance (Dhikr): These acts rely on personal effort and devotion.
Fasting: Deputation is not allowed unless permanent inability is established, in which case feeding the poor is required.
These worships emphasize individual responsibility in one’s relationship with Allah.
Deputation in worship must follow Islamic rules to ensure its validity and acceptance.
Hajj: The deputy must intend to perform Hajj on behalf of the incapacitated person and must have performed Hajj for themselves first.
Zakat: A trustworthy person may be authorized to pay Zakat on behalf of the owner following the prescribed rules.
Fasting: If fasting is impossible due to permanent inability, the deputy can fulfill it by feeding a poor person for each missed day.
Deputation relies on the deputy’s sincerity and adherence to Islamic conditions.
Deputation in worship is subject to conditions ensuring its validity and compliance with Islamic principles.
Permissibility: The worship must be eligible for deputation, such as Hajj or Zakat, while acts requiring personal intention, like prayer, are excluded.
Fulfillment by the Deputy: The deputy must have performed the worship for themselves first, as in Hajj.
Reason for Deputation: It must be due to a permanent incapacity, like chronic illness or old age.
Correct Execution: The act must be performed according to its proper rules and with sincerity.
These conditions reflect the wisdom behind deputation as a facilitation for believers.
Is Deputation Allowed in Prayer?
No, deputation in prayer is not allowed, as it requires personal intention and direct performance by the individual.
Is Deputation Allowed in Zakat?
Yes, deputation in Zakat is permissible by delegating a trustworthy person to distribute it, provided it meets Islamic requirements and is given to rightful recipients.
What Is the Ruling on Deputation in Umrah According to the Four Schools of Thought?
The four schools agree on the permissibility of deputation in Umrah for someone permanently incapacitated, such as the elderly or chronically ill.
Hanafi, Maliki, and Shafi’i Schools: Require the deputy to have performed Umrah for themselves first.
Hanbali School: Allows deputation for the deceased or incapacitated, based on prophetic guidance about Hajj and Umrah.
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