Allah, Most High, has decreed Hajj for you. Al-Aqra' bin Habis At-Tamimi said: "Every year, O Messenger of Allah?" But he remained silent, then he said: "If I said yes, it would become obligatory, then you would not hear and obey. Rather it is just one Hajj."
The Book of Hajj - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2620
Allah, Most High, has decreed Hajj for you. Al-Aqra' bin Habis At-Tamimi said: "Every year, O Messenger of Allah?" But he remained silent, then he said: "If I said yes, it would become obligatory, then you would not hear and obey. Rather it is just one Hajj."
Scholarly Commentary
This narration demonstrates the divine wisdom in legislation. The Prophet's silence before answering reflects careful consideration of the consequences of religious rulings.
The questioner inquired whether Hajj is required annually, showing either eagerness for reward or concern about burden. The Prophet clarified that affirming annual obligation would exceed what people could bear, leading to disobedience.
This establishes the principle that Hajj is obligatory once in a lifetime for those capable, preserving both the sanctity of the obligation and consideration for human capacity, in accordance with Allah's mercy.