They object, saying, “What is obligatory cannot be tied to one’s intention.” This statement is vague, for an obligation is never left to the servant’s whim so that it could be said, “If you wish, perform it.” Still, the Law may link an obligation to a condition in order to clarify a particular ruling. Consider His words:

“When you rise for prayer, wash …” ⦗al-Māʾidah 5:6⦘;

exegetes understand it to mean, “When you intend to rise.” Likewise, regarding the verse, “When you intend to recite, seek refuge,” both purification and the recitation within the prayer are mandatory. He, the Exalted, also says:

“It is nothing but a reminder to the worlds—for whoever among you wishes to take the straight path.” ⦗al-Takwīr 81:27-28⦘

and willing to follow the straight path is itself obligatory.

Furthermore, the sacrifice is not binding upon every individual; it is incumbent only on the one who is able—and that is precisely the person who intends to offer it. The Prophet said:

“Whoever intends to perform the pilgrimage should hasten to do so, for a stray may be lost or a need may arise.”

And pilgrimage is obligatory upon—