Ihram

What is Ihram?

Ihram is a dress consists of men's and women's garments worn by Pilgrims during Hajj. Men's Ihram consists of two white unhemmed sheets (usually towelling material) and are universal in appearance. The top is draped over the torso and the bottom is secured by a belt plus a pair of sandals. Women's clothing, however, varies considerably and reflects regional as well as religious influences but mostly it consists of light colours .

Ihram clothing is intended to make everyone appear the same in the eyes of Allah. There is no difference between a king & a peasant & everyone is dressed equally. Ihram also contributes to a feeling of unity that pilgrims have when they are in the holy city of Makkah. They are all brothers and sisters assembled to worship God. There are also certain behaviors that are expected and forbidden once ihram is donned.

Ihram is also a state a pilgrim is in during the Hajj pilgrimage. Before entering Ihram, one takes a bathe, trim nails and hair, make wudu (cleansing ritual),and pronounce a formal intention to perform Hajj. While in Ihram, pilgrims are not allowed to hunt or kill any living thing or have sex, cut hair or nails, or wear makeup or perfume.

Ihram is donned on 8th Dhul Hijjah which is falling on 25th Nov before we leave to Mina in the outskirts of Makkah.