What is Ihram during hajj and Umrah?

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Ihram refers to the sacred state that a Muslim enters into for the purpose of performing Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage. It involves specific rituals, clothing, and restrictions that symbolize purity and devotion during the pilgrimage.

When a person enters the state of Ihram, they make a formal intention (niyyah) to begin their pilgrimage. The following are key aspects of the Ihram:

1. Clothing: Men wear two seamless white garments, known as the Ihram attire. It consists of a wraparound lower garment (izār) and an upper sheet (ridā). The clothing is simple, symbolizing equality and humility, and is intended to remove any distinctions of wealth, status, or fashion.
2. Restrictions: While in Ihram, certain actions and behaviors are prohibited. These include cutting hair or nails, using scented products, wearing stitched clothing (for men), covering the head (for men), hunting or killing animals, engaging in sexual activities, and engaging in arguments or violence. These restrictions are meant to foster a state of purity, focus, and spiritual devotion.
3. Intention and Invocation: Upon wearing the Ihram garments, the pilgrim makes an intention (niyyah) to enter into the state of Ihram and commence their pilgrimage. It is also common to recite the Talbiyah, a specific invocation, during the journey. The Talbiyah is a declaration of the pilgrim’s purpose and submission to God.
4. Duration: The state of Ihram begins when the pilgrim enters the designated boundary (Miqat) and continues until the completion of the pilgrimage rituals, which includes the Tawaf al-Ifadah (circumambulation), the Sa’i (going between the hills of Safa and Marwa), and the cutting or shaving of the hair.

Entering the state of Ihram is a significant step in the pilgrimage journey. It signifies the pilgrim’s readiness to engage in the prescribed rituals and serves as a reminder of the spiritual purpose and devotion associated with the Hajj or Umrah pilgrimage.

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