Does the settlement of a debt take precedence over performing a non-obligatory hajj? I purchased a building from my uncle, for which I made a deposit payment. I make a monthly payment, yet approximately half of the total sum remains outstanding. I wish to perform hajj with my mother this year, which is expected to cost 70,000. Kindly note that I performed hajj twice before, once last year and once again four years prior with my mother. My uncle has asked me on several occasions to pay him back, as he has retired and his pension is insufficient to meet his needs. I am uncertain whether I should accompany my mother on hajj or settle my debt with my uncle?

If the case is as described in the question, addressing the debt is more important than undertaking hajj, particularly since the inquirer’s uncle, the creditor, is in need of the outstanding sum and has made repeated requests for its repayment.

The ruling

Settling the debt takes precedence over making a non-obligatory hajj.

And Allah Almighty knows best