Book of Pilgrimage (Ḥajj)
Chapter: The obligation of the pilgrimage—upon whom it is due, when it becomes due, and what it requires

Allah the Exalted says: “And pilgrimage to the House is a duty owed to Allah by all people who are able to find a way to it” (Qur’an 3:97).

The pilgrimage becomes obligatory for every man and woman who is able to undertake it, provided they are free, have reached puberty, and are of sound mind. Ability (istitāʿa) is defined as physical strength together with sufficient provisions for the journey, whether one travels on foot or mounted, so long as the route is safe. According to Mālik, merely possessing provisions and a mount does not constitute ability if physical strength is lacking. If a person is bodily incapable and cannot keep himself steady on a mount, Mālik holds that the duty is lifted from him and he is not obliged to perform the pilgrimage.