What is the ruling on someone who forgot to shave or cut their hair after performing 'Umrah and putting on their clothes, and they are 12 years old?
Scholars have differed regarding the obligation for a child to complete the ritual if he or she has begun it. The majority opinion is that completing it is obligatory. According to this view, the child must shorten or shave his orhair whenever he remembers to exit ihram. He is not liable for dam (sacrificial offering) or fidyah (expiation) if he was discerning and committed the act forgetfully, or intentionally, based on the principle that a child's intentional act is considered a mistake. If fidyah is due, it is paid from the guardian's wealth. Abu Hanifa, however, held that completing the ritual is not obligatory for a child because he is not held accountable, and this is the view preferred by Sheikh Al-Uthaymeen. According to this view, nothing is incumbent upon the child if he forgets to shave or shorten his hair.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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