To embark on the spiritual journey of Umrah, Muslims have to follow a proper dress code. Without making an intention and wearing an Ihram, one cannot start an Umrah trip. Wearing Ihram means preparing your body and soul to present in front of Allah and seeking repentance of all your sins. We have defined the significance of Ihram and why you need to wear it during Hajj and Umrah rituals.
Ihram: A Symbol of Purification and Equality
The Ihram is generated from the Arabic word ‘haram’ which means forbidden. Ihram is a white piece of cloth worn by men going for Umrah and Hajj pilgrimage. Women also have to follow certain rules while wearing Ihram. Although there isn’t any specific dress code for women, their bodies should be covered fully except their faces and hands. While men are not allowed to cover their feet, hands, and right shoulder. When Muslims wear the Ihram, they have to make the intention that they’ll refrain from all sorts of negative activities and bad behaviors. Restrictions to follow while wearing Ihram are:
- Avoid cutting nails.
- Don’t cut your hair.
- Don’t scratch your body harshly.
- Stay away from scented items.
- Don’t use any type of perfume.
- Avoid arguments.
- Don’t engage in any haram activity.
Ihram is a two-piece cloth symbolizing unity and togetherness among the Muslim community. White color identifies the equality and purity among pilgrims without the difference of race, nationality, and status in front of Allah. Buy a good quality Ihram before starting your Umrah trip to avoid facing hustle in the meantime.
The Mandatory Nature of Ihram in Umrah
There are different thoughts and writings regarding the Umrah Packages from UK, whether it is mandatory or not. In the Hanafi school of thought, wearing the Ihram for Umrah is highly recommended, while the Maliki, Shafi’I, and Hanbali schools consider it mandatory. However, to enter the premises of Mataf, you must wear Ihram, otherwise guard wouldn’t allow you.
The Rituals and Significance of Ihram in Umrah
Wearing Ihram means you are going to start the spiritual act of Umrah. After wearing Ihram, Muslims start their Umrah trip and keep reciting Talbiyah to show their devotion towards Allah. After reaching in front of Kaaba stop reciting Talbiyah and start your Tawaf, pray nawafil, drink Zamzam, and then complete the rounds of Sa’i. After performing all these acts, now men have to shave their heads and women just need to cut a few inches of hair. Now you are out of all the restrictions of Ihram and you can wear comfortable clothes.
Final Thoughts
Wearing Ihram means being in a sacred state, and purifying your mind and body from all the activities that are refrained in Islam. You can start your Umrah trip only after wearing the Ihram and you must follow the restrictions of the Ihram otherwise you have to face the penalty. If you are planning to perform this spiritual act any sooner, consider contacting Muslims Holy Travel for better assistance.