The Criterion of Ability to Perform Hajj in the Statement of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): “Whoever has the means to reach it”

Question:
May Allah reward you. In another question, he asks: What is the meaning of ability (istita'ah) with regard to Hajj?

Answer:
Ability, as explained by Ibn 'Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) in his interpretation of the verse, is the provision and the mount. Provision means the expenses one spends on oneself for the Hajj journey and the requirements of Hajj. It also means that there is enough for his family and those he supports to last until he returns to them. This is financial ability. Physical ability means being capable of performing Hajj oneself. If a person is ill or disabled with a permanent disability, such as an old man or a chronic patient, then if he can perform the obligation himself, he does so; otherwise, he appoints someone to perform Hajj on his behalf. This is because a man came to the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and said, “My father has reached the age of the obligation of Hajj, but he is unable to stay on the mount. Should I perform Hajj on his behalf?” He said (peace and blessings be upon him): Yes. As for the one who has a temporary disability, he waits until it is removed, then he performs Hajj. Yes.