(Warning for neglecting Hajj despite ability)

Ibn ‘Abbas reported God’s messenger as saying, “Islam does not allow for failure to perform the pilgrimage." Abu Dawud transmitted it. (The word used here is sarura. The meaning is strictly "one who does not perform the pilgrimage." It is explained as coming from sarr which indicates the act of confining, or withholding. Another meaning is abstinence from marriage, and the tradition is sometimes explained as meaning that Islam does not allow of celibacy; but while that is a possible interpretation it is not the appropriate one in this chapter).