Answered by Shaykh Yusuf Badat
Question:
My husband had taken a car loan and the repayment installments will continue another 2-3 years. We are planning to perform Hajj very soon. Would it be permissible to perform Hajj during the loan repayment period?
Answer:
Jazakumullahu Khayran/ Thank you for your question.
May Allah bless you for your sincere intentions to increase in rendering good deeds.
It is important to note that paying off debts is an obligatory injunction and one will be questioned regarding outstanding debts by Almighty Allah. There is no doubt that it would be strongly advised to pay off your debts rather than proceed for Hajj.
It is however worthy to mention that your Hajj would still be considered complete In-sha Allah, if you do choose to proceed without settling debts.
Some amongst the learned have also stated that if you seek permission from your creditors, or in the case where you are making steady installment payments, that would not be affected due to the Hajj journey, there would be no objection in proceeding for Hajj.
Regarding debt, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has stated,
“I seek protection from disbelief and debt” (Nasai, Hakim)
“The one who dies in a state having even a single [outstanding] gold or silver coin, the matter will be settled (with creditors) through his good deeds, as there is no gold or silver (currency) in the hereafter.” (Ibn Majah, Tabrani)
Allah Knows Best.