and others, however, drew distinctions, among them Imām Aḥmad. He said, “Ibn ʿAbbās practised it in Basra, and ʿAmr ibn Ḥarb in Kufa.”

150 – Yet even so, Aḥmad did not deem it recommended; he himself neither performed it nor forbade those who did. There is, nevertheless, a report from him that indicates he regarded it as commendable.

Ruling on travelling for taʿrīf anywhere other than ʿArafah
151 – As for travelling to perform taʿrīf somewhere other than ʿArafah, the Muslims are unanimously agreed that this is a deviation, particularly when it takes place at a shrine—whether of a relative, a righteous man, or someone from the Prophet’s family. Indeed, the scholars, the leading imams and their followers, forbid travelling to such sites even for purposes other than taʿrīf.

152 – The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Do not set out on a journey except to three mosques: the Sacred Mosque, al-Aqsa Mosque, and this mosque of mine.” 1

153 – Busr ibn Abī Busrah al-Ghifārī once met Abū Hurayrah returning from a visit to Mount Ṭūr and said, “Mounts are not to be saddled except to three mosques: the Sacred Mosque, al-Aqsa Mosque, and this mosque of mine.” 2