One of the most important aspects of a pilgrimage like the Hajj or the Umrah is wearing the Ihram. The Ihram is a sacred garment that shows symbolically that you have entered into a state of purity. Apart from this, you have embraced a sense of equality amongst the pilgrims, regardless of the social status that you hold. The Ihram garment is different for Men and Women and there is a proper process to wear it. Many of the travellers may have doubts or queries regarding how to wear Ihram properly. This guide will answer all the queries that you may have about it!
The process of wearing the Ihram is slightly different for the men and the women. The men have a dedicated set of garments that they must wear before going on the Umrah pilgrimage.
On the other hand, the women can wear a modest attire that must adhere to the guidelines of the Islam. So, let us look at the way or the process of wearing an Ihram for the Umrah pilgrimage.
The first step to undertake before wearing the Ihram is the purification process. For this, you will need to take a bath which many call the ghusl. This allows you to fully purify yourself. After that, make sure to trim your nails and any unwanted hair. During the entire time, ensure that you are in a state of spiritual cleanliness. Then begin with making your intention or the Niyyah to perform the Umrah or the Hajj pilgrimage.
The next step is actually wearing the Ihram. You will need to obtain two white, unstitched cloths. Rida is the upper cloth while the lower one is the Izar.
You will need to start the Ihram wearing process by wearing the Izar first. Begin by wrapping the cloth around your waist. This cloth should adequately cover your body from the navel to the ankles. After that, you need to secure it with a belt of by tucking it in.
Then you will need to start by wearing the Rida which is the upper cloth. Carefully drape it over your shoulders so that it adequately covers the upper body. The right side should be longer than the left side so that it modestly covers you. After this, you can wear your sandals but make sure that they do not cover the ankles.
If you are wondering about what to wear under Ihram for men then the answer is nothing. You should only wear the two unstitched white cloths. This will allow you to maintain the state of Ihram which emphasizes on simplicity and equality amongst the pilgrims.
The final preparations of wearing the Ihram includes making sure that you do not cover your head. Also, you will need to offer two rak‘ahs of nafl which is optional but can be beneficial. You can do this step before entering into the Ihram fully.
After dressing, you will need to recite the Talbiyah which is a prayer, out loud. This will confirm your intention to perform the Umrah or the Hajj Pilgrimage.
Many pilgrims need time to undergo the preparation process for the pilgrimage. In order to get as much time as possible, you can consider to book an all inclusive Umrah package. This will give you all the time you need to carefully follow all the traditions and rituals while experts will handle your travel, accommodations and visa needs for your trip to the Saudi Arabia.
Women will start the process of wearing the Ihram by first undergoing the purification ritual. This essentially includes taking a bath which is the ghusl. Apart from this, you will need to trim any unwanted hair or nails. After that, make your Niyyah or the intention to go on the Umrah or Hajj pilgrimage.
When you compare the Ihram garments of the men to the women, you will realize that there is not dedicated garments for the women. This means, you are free to choose any modest garment that will meet all the guidelines set by the Islam. Also, one more thing you should note is that there is no specific colour requirement for the Ihram garments of women.
Most women recommend wearing a loose-fitting abaya or a jibab. That is because most women wear it during the pilgrimage. Make sure that it covers the entire body except the hands and the face.
One important thing that you should note is the hair covering. While men do not need to cover their hair, women are requested to cover their hair with a hijab. Make sure to not cover the face with a niqab or any cloth that touches it directly.
After this, you can choose to wear comfortable sandals. But, see to it that they do not cover your ankles.
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For the final preparations, women need to avoid wearing any jewelry or cosmetics. If you want, you can recite two rak‘ahs of nafl. After that, start entering into the Ihram by reciting the Talbiyah which is an earnest prayer that shows your intention to begin the Umrah or the Hajj Pilgrimage.
Going on a pilgrimage like the Umrah or Hajj requires lot of dedication and time. Much of the time will go into planning and preparations. But, if you do that, then while performing the ritual you may feel that you are rushing them. For a comfortable and convenient Umrah experience, choose a trusted Umrah tour operator in UK. By doing this, you shift all the part of the planning to experts while you prepare yourself for the holy pilgrimage of the Umrah or the Hajj!
Both the men and the women must adhere to certain dos and don’ts. This will ensure that you are avoiding certain prohibitions and ensuring that you remain in the state of Ihram.
The first thing that you should do not cut your hair or nails after entering the state of Ihram. You must also refrain from using any perfume or the cosmetics.
As men will wear the two unstitched white cloths they should avoid wearing any stitched garments. Also, you must take care to avoid engaging in any marital relations. Apart from this, you must not hunt or harm any living creatures.
As for the dos, you must always intend and focus on remaining in the state of Ihram. This must continue till the final step of your pilgrimage is complete.
Always try to stay humble and respectful during your pilgrimage. Whether it is the interactions with the fellow pilgrims or in any stressful situations, deal with it calmly.
Try to focus on the worship during the state of Ihram. Dedicate yourself for a time or prayer, spiritual growth and reflection during the entire part of the pilgrimage!
Also check, First Time Umrah Trip Tips – 10 Things You Need to Know
Wearing the Ihram garments and entering the state of Ihram are an important aspect of preparing for the Umrah or the Hajj pilgrimage. This guide should answer all your queries or questions regarding how to wear Ihram.
You can follow all the outlined steps with the right intentions for a divine pilgrimage experience in the Saudi Arabia. If you are worrying about how to plan the pilgrimage, then simply book the best Umrah packages from UK. This will enable you to stop worrying about the travel part of your pilgrimage and focus more on preparing for the spiritual part of journey!
When one says Ihram, it will refer to two things, the state of the purity as well as the garments that the Muslim pilgrims wear during the pilgrimage of the Umrah or the Hajj. By wearing these garments or entering into the purity state, pilgrims strip away all material distinctions and being their pilgrimage which focuses on worship, the spiritual growth of the pilgrim and getting closer to Allah.
Men are not permitted to wear socks while in Ihram, as they must keep their ankles exposed . However, women can wear socks if they choose, as long as their hands and faces remain uncovered . The key is to maintain modesty while adhering to Ihram rules .
While in the state of Ihram, pilgrims must avoid certain actions, including cutting hair or nails, using perfume, engaging in marital relations, hunting animals, and wearing stitched clothing (for men) . These prohibitions help maintain focus on spiritual activities and humility throughout the pilgrimage.
Yes, during the Ihram state, women can change their clothes . But, they should make sure that the new attire meets the requirements of modesty and the guidelines of the Islam. On the other hand, Men can also change into clean Ihram garments. It is only permissible if the garments are unstitched. This will ensure that you are in a comfortable and hygienic state without breaking the state of the Ihram.
Yes, pilgrims can use unscented soap for cleansing purposes while in Ihram . However, it is important to know that you should avoid any product that can contain fragrance or scent. Maintaining hygiene is important without violating the restrictions associated with this sacred state.
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