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It is important for pilgrims to wear the sacred clothing known as Hajj Ihram clothing before embarking on the blessed journey of Hajj or Umrah. Ihram is not just a set of dress codes, but also a representation of purity, equality, humility, and the utmost submission to Allah. It serves as a reminder to the Muslims that before Allah, all the believers are equal, whether rich or poor. Men in the UK wear two sheets of white clothes, which takes away the distinctions of riches, status and nationality and makes all the pilgrims equal before Allah.
During the sacred journey, the men have two simple white cloths which are not sewn together. The lower part of the cloth is the Izar and extends from the waist to the ankles. The top cloth is the Rida, which is around the shoulders and upper body. These clothing pieces highlight the signs of purity, humility, simplicity and equality for all pilgrims.
Any clothing that is stitch fits closely to the body is not allowed for men in Ihram. Undergarments (underwear), socks, caps or head coverings are also in prohibition list. Shoes must show ankles and the upper part of the feet. Wearing white clothes is a top recommendation, which is to represent simplicity, cleanliness and equality of all Muslims at the time of Hajj and Umrah.
In hot weather, it is important to select a comfortable fabric for Ihram for men. Cotton is a common material as it is light, airy and can absorb sweat effectively. Towel fabric often helps to add comfort and increase traction. The use of lightweight and breathable materials ensures that the pilgrims are comfortable and can focus on their spiritual practises without being overburdened by the weight of their clothing.
Pilgrims should not perform various acts after wearing Ihram for Hajj to keep them in a state of purity and devotion during the pilgrimage of Hajj or Umrah. Men in the UK should not wear stitched clothing, cover their heads and perfume, and women should not cover their faces and hands with fitted coverings. Men and women should not cut their hair or their nails, use perfume, hunt animals, have sexual relations or indulge in sinful activities like quarrelling, fighting, or using bad language.
During Ihram, marriage proposals and contracts are not allowed as well. It is also not permissible to cause harm to any plants inside the Sacred Precincts of Makkah. Pilgrims should be patient, humble and have their minds oriented towards worship. They should be careful about the rules of Ihram so that their pilgrimage may be accepted and may be spiritually rewarding.
Many pilgrims make the mistake of wearing stitched or tight clothing during Ihram. Men should go for two simple white unstitched clothing garments, whereas women can choose modest loose clothes. It is important to go for the right selection of Ihram, which follows all the right regulations of pilgrimage. At the end of the day, the clothing has to maintain simplicity, equality, and spiritual focus during Hajj or Umrah.
Some pilgrims are only concerned with appearance and not comfort and cleanliness. The tight Ihram clothes may be uncomfortable to wear, and they may get dirty after a while, causing discomfort in crowded areas and during long walks. Pilgrims should wear soft, breathable fabric and should keep their extra clean Ihram garments, if possible. Wearing comfortable clothing enables a focus on worship and religious activities.
Application of perfume or other ointments on the Ihram towel before or after wearing them is another major mistake to avoid. The pilgrims should not be using fragrances in Ihram. People don’t realise they are using fragrance detergents, soaps or sprays and they unknowingly use them with scent. Unscented products are always among the major rules which Muslims need to follow properly to avoid unnecessary mistakes.
There are some pilgrims who do not wear the Ihram properly so that it becomes loose or the body is uncovered when walking or praying. This is a distraction and discomfort in worship. It is of great benefit to know how to wrap and wear the Ihram before the journey. Wearing an Ihram belt or clips will provide more support and excellent comfort.
1. What is the aim of Ihram at Hajj?
The main purpose of Ihram is to show equality, humility, purity and submission to Allah. It eliminates all kinds of status, wealth and nationality differences when Muslims are standing in one line.
2. Can women wear stitched clothing?
Yes, women can wear the stitched clothing, but it has to be loose and modest, free from all kinds of transparencies in fabric.
3. Are men allowed to wear underwear under the Ihram?
Men are not allowed to wear clothing which is in stitched form. They will wear the traditional two-piece Ihram cloth, which is not stitched.
Experience the comfort, purity and confidence in your sacred journey, with expertly crafted Ihram wear from Sweet Needle. The materials we use on our high-quality pilgrimage clothing are comfortable to wear and breathable. If you are looking for a soft men’s Ihram set for the Hajj in the UK, Sweet Needle brings together Islamic modesty with unparalleled quality.
