When does Hijrah become compulsory?

Question:

When does hijra become compulsory for muslims? Does hijra only become compulsory if there is a Islamic state?

Can muslim make hijrah from Darul kufr to another Darul kufr where it is easier to practice religion?

Please elaborate on ruling of hijra according to hanafi fiqh.

Answer:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.

In principle, if a Muslim is being restricted from practicing on Islam due to fear, hindrance or intimidation, then Hijrah will be compulsory.[1] If one is free to practice Deen without any obstacles in any part of the world, he/she will not be required to make Hijrah.

Hafiz Ibn Kathir (Rahimahullah) has quoted a Hadith in which Rasulullah (Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wa Sallam) is reported to have said:

البلاد بلاد الله و العباد عباد الله فحيثما اصبت خيرا فاقم

Translation: All cites belong to Allah, and all the people are His servants. Therefore, wherever you find goodness, reside there. [2]

You may also refer to a recent answered fatwa for further information on this topic.

And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best

Checked and Approved by,
Mufti Ebrahim Desai.