Q: I was given to understand that Haji/Alhaj denotes a pilgrim in Arabic Language. After one has fulfilled his Haj and removed his Ihraam and returns to his native country he is no longer a Haji, i.e., a pilgrim. But, in my country India, Hajis after their return from Haj Pilgrimage,
add a mandatory prefix title to their name i.e., Alhaj Umar for example, wherever they include their names whether it be wedding or other social invitations, letters, banners, media, etc.
- Is the usage of this prefix title of Alhaj allowed in Shariah even after a Haji returns from Haj?
- Will it not be classified under Riy’aa ?(Showing Off)
A:
- Yes.
- If the person is not doing it out of pride, it will not be regarded as riya.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Zakaria Makada
Checked & Approved:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)