The Complete Guide to Ihram in Hajj and Umrah

Ihram: an Important Aspect of the Pilgrimage

Ihram is a sacred, spiritual state that signifies the individual’s dedication to worshiping Allah, free from worldly distractions. To enter Ihram, the you wear the prescribed ihram clothing and make the intention to perform hajj or umrah.

Ihram includes reciting the Talbiyah, an obligatory act of worship. The talbiyah is a declaration of your intention to perform hajj or umrah and demonstrates your readiness to embark on the sacred journey and fulfill your religious obligations.

The Meaning of Ihram for Hajj and Umrah

The term Ihram has a dual meaning: the first meaning refers to the state of consecration and purity. The second meaning refers to the Ihram attire, the specific clothing worn by men and women during the pilgrimage. Ihram is a state of physical purity and spiritual elevation, symbolizing the pilgrim’s detachment from worldly matters and dedication to worshiping Allah.

You must undergo cleansing rituals before performing the Umrah and Hajj, and wear the designated ihram clothing until the pilgrimage is completed. This clothing is considered sacred as it represents a higher spiritual state. Like all parts of Hajj, there is an outer and inner aspect to the clothing. The outer aspect has certain etiquettes that must be followed, while the inner aspect involves removing the ego. 

The clothing is not like regular clothes, but rather represents the color and scent of the next world, and reminds the wearer to be attached to Allah. This clothing is a symbol of honor and has been given to the servant by Allah. It represents servitude and is considered a special cloak.

The Steps to Enter Ihram

Umrah or Hajj pilgrims don’t simply reach Mecca directly. Instead, they reside in one of the five specified Miqats based on their chosen path. While in the Miqat, they begin the cleansing rituals and wear the Ihram garments to enter into this state of purity.

1. Perform a ritual bath (ghusl), trim nails, and remove unwanted hair.
2. Dress in Ihram garments
3. Make the intention (Niyyah) for Hajj or Umrah mentally
4. Recite the Talbiyah
5. Follow the Ihram rules and prohibitions

Miqat: The Boundary Where You Enter the State of Ihram

The Miqat is a designated boundary surrounding Makkah, which pilgrims must not cross without entering the state of Ihram when intending to perform Hajj or Umrah. There are five primary Miqats for those coming from different directions, each specified for people from particular regions:

1. Dhul Hulayfah, situated approximately 9 kilometers northwest of Madinah and 450 kilometers away from Makkah, serves as the designated miqat for individuals residing in Madinah travelling towards Makkah.
2. Al-Juhfah, positioned around 190 kilometers northwest of Makkah, is the miqat for those approaching from Syria.
3. Qarn Al-Manāzil, situated 90 kilometers east of Makkah, is the miqat designated for individuals residing in Nejd or those coming from that direction.
4. Dhat Irq, located roughly 85 kilometers northeast of Makkah, acts as the miqat for individuals from Iran, Iraq, and other places in that vicinity.
5. Yalamlam, situated approximately 50 kilometers southeast of Makkah, serves as the miqat for those from Yemen and those coming from that direction, including many pilgrims from China, Japan, India, and Pakistan who arrive by ship. 

Wear Ihram When You Enter the Miqat

Pilgrims must wear their ihram clothing before entering the miqat, which are designated locations around Makkah. Wearing the ihram garments is obligatory when crossing the miqat, and the clothing must be worn until the pilgrimage is completed. Miqats are located at various distances from Makkah, with the nearest one being 7km away and others located at 182km or more.

However, many people who travel by plane choose to wear the Ihram dress upon their arrival at the airport. Here is an Ihram (or Ehram) room in Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, Jordan.

The Dress of Ihram

Ihram Dress For Men

Men should wear two ‘unstitched’ cloths or towels, one covering the lower body to conceal private areas and another wrapped round the upper part of the body to protect against the elements. ‘Unstitched’ are clothes that are not tailored to be fitted around body limbs like shirts or trousers. Wear preferably white garments.

The dress code of Ihram allows sandals or flip-flops that reveal most of the upper foot, making certain that at least the top foot bone and ankles are exposed. Refrain from covering your face, hands, or head. 

Women’s Ihram

Women have varying clothing needs since unsewn garments may not sufficiently maintain modesty for females. Thus, they have the option to don any style and hue of modest attire, even if it’s tailored. Wearing socks and shoes is also acceptable in the case of women. However, the only restriction for them is that they must not conceal their face or hands. 

Intention for Ihram: Niyyah

After putting on Ihram dress, concentrate on your primary goal: making the intention of Ihram. This can only be reached by letting go of anything that diverts your focus from Allah. Intention, or “niyyah” in Arabic, refers to your inner decision and commitment to perform these religious rites solely for the sake of Allah, seeking His pleasure and forgiveness.

Intention is expressed through the heart rather than just spoken words. You must internally and consciously set the purpose for performing Hajj or Umrah and ensure that your motivations are sincere. 

The Talbiyah

Once you have made the intention for Ihram internally,  you recite specific words, known as “Talbiyah,” to verbally express your intention. The Talbiyah is an essential part of the Ihram state. The Talbiyah is recited as follows:

“Labbayk, Allahumma Labbayk. Labbayk La Shareeka Laka Labbayk. Innal Hamda, Wan-Ni’mata, Laka wal Mulk, La Shareeka Lak.”

In English, this translates to:

“Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise, grace, and sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.”

You can recite the Talbiyah throughout your journey, especially when enter the state of Ihram, change locations, or perform Umrah or Hajj, as a reminder of your devotion and submission to Allah.

The Rules of Ihram

The following rules apply during Ihram:

• Clothing restrictions: Men should not wear any head coverings, such as caps or scarves, nor should they cover their faces. Women must avoid pretty clothes and ornaments during ihram. Both men and women should wear simple footwear that does not cover the tops of their feet. Wearing sewed dresses is also prohibited. 
• Personal grooming: Pilgrims must not trim or shave any hair on their head or body, clip nails, pluck body hairs, or apply collyrium. They should also avoid using perfume or scented products.
• Intimacy: Sexual intercourse, kissing with desire, touching or copulating with a woman, and masturbating are strictly prohibited.
• Hunting and hurting animals: Hunting or helping others to hunt is not allowed. However, killing harmful animals like mice, snakes, and scorpions for safety reasons is permissible. Pilgrims should also avoid causing harm or pain to any animals.
• Marriage: Pilgrims must not enter into marriage contracts or proposals or witness such events during ihram.
• Using mirrors, wearing rings as ornaments, and carrying weapons are all forbidden.
• Swearing, lying, flaunting, and cursing are not allowed.
• Oiling the skin or applying any substances that may leave a fragrance after use is not permitted.
• Pilgrims should not walk under a shade or use any covering that touches their head. However, using an umbrella or sheet that does not touch their head is allowed.
• Pulling teeth out, cutting nails and shedding blood are all prohibited actions.

How To Wear the Ihram Garments?

Men should wrap the lower piece of cloth around their waist and secure it with a belt or pin. The upper piece of cloth should be draped over the left shoulder and wrapped around the body, leaving the right shoulder exposed.

Women may wear a dress that covers their entire body except for the face and hands. Both men and women can wear sandals or other simple footwear that does not cover the tops of their feet.

Men vs Women Ihram Rules

While the basic principles and restrictions of ihram apply to both men and women during hajj, there are some differences in the clothing worn and certain rules. Men wear two unstitched pieces of cloth that cover their upper and lower bodies, while women wear a dress that covers their entire body, except for the face and hands. Women are not permitted to cover their faces with a veil during ihram. 

Can I Change My Ihram Clothing?

While you cannot remove the ihram clothing during the hajj or umrah, you are allowed to change them if necessary, such as in the case of soiling or damage. If a change is required, one should ensure that the replacement clothing adheres to the same requirements as the original garments.

Can I Take a Bath After I Enter Ihram?

Yes, taking a bath after wearing ihram is allowed. Maintaining cleanliness is an essential part of the Islamic faith. However, it is crucial to ensure that one does not violate any of the ihram restrictions during the bathing process, such as using scented soaps or shampoos, or accidentally removing any hair. The focus should remain on maintaining personal hygiene and purity throughout the hajj or umrah pilgrimage while observing the rules of ihram.

In conclusion, the state of ihram is a vital aspect of the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, symbolizing purity, humility, and unity among the pilgrims. Adhering to the rules and guidelines of ihram is an essential part of the spiritual journey, enabling pilgrims to fully immerse themselves in this sacred experience.

As you prepare to enter ihram, remember to cleanse both your body and mind, focusing on the significance of this act of worship and your connection with Allah. May your pilgrimage be blessed, and may you find spiritual growth and enlightenment as you embark on this remarkable journey.