The two of us are going for hajj and leaving the children behind. What needs to be arranged before we leave?

Arrange three things: a guardian for the children, your finances and will (wasiat), and your relationships with the people around you. Choose a guardian whom the children know and trust, then give them a list of the daily routine, school details and the children's health records. Prepare written letters of authorisation for school or clinic matters. Settle or record your debts, set aside spending money for the guardian, and make sure someone knows where your important documents are kept. Many pilgrims write a will before they leave; it is not a sign of despair but a sign of responsibility. Finally, ask forgiveness of your family and neighbours, and explain to the children, in words they understand, why their parents are going. See preparation and wills.