7 Easy Steps to Wear Ihram for Hajj Correctly
Every year, millions of Muslims travel from all four corners of the Earth to visit the House of Allah (swt) in Makkah. Although Hajj can only be performed in the sacred month of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims can perform ’Umrah throughout the year.
Advantageous times for the ‘lesser pilgrimage’ include the blessed month of Ramadan for substantial rewards and the winter months to make the rites more bearable in cooler weather. In this article, we will cover the rules of ihram and how to wear it, which will be helpful for UK pilgrims.
What is Ihram
While we usually associate the ihram with two white clothes worn by pilgrims, it is actually much deeper than this.
The Ihram is a sacred state of both mind and body into which a Muslim enters before performing hajj and Umrah. To enter into ihram, one must make the intention for ihram and put on the ihram clothing before passing one of the Miqat points.
You will also need to make the intention for what act of worship you will be performing. The ihram is a state of mind, and just like when you begin praying or fasting, certain things which would ordinarily be halal for you are now Haram.
It is important to maintain the state of mind as you proceed through the different stages of Hajj. Budget-friendly Hajj packages from the UK provide essential services, accommodation, and a tour guide.
How to Put on the Ihram for Men
Two white cloths – you can buy these online, at any Islamic store or even in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, before you set off for Makkah.
A pair of sandals that don’t cover the toes or the top of your feet.
One of the white cloths will be for your upper body, and the other for your lower half. The upper garment is called the Rida, and the lower one is called the Izar.
Step 1
Stand with your legs wide apart. This will make moving them to walk much easier when the Ihram has been wrapped fully.
Step 2
Place one of the white cloths on one side of your body, with half in front of you and the other half behind you. Wrap it around your lower body, whilst suppressing your stomach, so that the two sides of the cloth meet on the opposite side.
Step 3
Pinch the two sides of the cloth together firmly at the point where they meet, so it is secure around your body.
Holding the pinched part firmly in place by your side, bring the ends of the two halves forward and fold them together over the front of your body.
Step 4
Now that you’ve wrapped the Ihram around your lower body, it is time to ensure that it holds securely and doesn’t fall off. The Ihram should now be firmly wrapped around your lower body – even if you tug at it, it should hold.
For extra security, it is permissible to wear an Ihram belt or a money belt around your waist.
Step 5
By now, your lower body should be covered. Now it is time to cover the upper half. Take the second cloth and hold it behind your back.
Step 6
Bring the two sides of the cloth over each shoulder so that the entire cloth can rest on your body without needing to be held.
Bring the longer side of the cloth around the front of your body and throw it over your left shoulder so that the fabric covers your torso.
Step 7
During Tawaf in Hajj or ’Umrah, you will need to expose your right shoulder, which is known as Idtiba’a. to do this, instead of placing both sides of the cloth over your shoulders, only place the left side over your left shoulder, and bring the right side in front of you, under your right arm and then throw it over your left shoulder.
Ihram for Women
The Ihram for women is less restrictive than it is for men. You begin by performing ghusl, trimming any unwanted hair, and clipping your nails.
You can wear your Hijab and Abaya as usual, covering the entire body, without any specific requirements for colour. However, it is best to wear something simple and plain without adornments. White/black garments may be best. Women can also wear regular socks and footwear that covers their feet.
If you usually cover your face, there are some restrictions during Ihram. You cannot cover your face with any cloth that touches your face directly. However, there are special caps that can be worn, which have some fabric hanging off. Your Hajj visa must be valid for six months if you are travelling for Hajj.
Conclusion
The ihram is not only physical but also spiritual. It causes pilgrims to get in a state of purity, humility and devotion. Observing the rules of Ihram is an indispensable component of pilgrimage, and by adhering to these rules, Muslims can ensure that their Hajj is accepted by Allah.
