by 28 Mar 2024
Performing Umrah and Hajj requires every pilgrims to enter into the state of Ihram, which entails wearing specific clothing that symbolises purity, simplicity and equality. With its plain and consistent design, no one will be able to tell people apart. The attire serves as a reminder that all individuals are equal in the eyes of Allah, and that one’s piety is what truly matters, as mentioned by our Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.):
“ إِنَّ اللَّهَ لاَ يَنْظُرُ إِلَى صُوَرِكُمْ وَأَمْوَالِكُمْ وَلَكِنْ يَنْظُرُ إِلَى قُلُوبِكُمْ وَأَعْمَالِكُمْ “
“Verily, Allah does not look at your faces and your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.”
In the state of Ihram, men are required to wear a specific Ihram clothing which consists of two white pieces of fabric that are seamless. The upper garment, called the rida, covers both shoulders and stops at the chest, leaving the right shoulder exposed only during Tawaf. The lower garment, called the izar, is wrapped around the waist and covers the area between the navel and feet. The upper garment can be secured using safety pins to prevent it from slipping off.
During this sacred time, men are prohibited from wearing any sewn clothing, including socks and undergarments. They are also prohibited from covering their head or feet. Should there be a need for footwear during Umrah, it must be a kind that leaves the top part of the feet and ankles exposed, such as slippers or sandals.
There is a wide range of Ihram cloth to choose from, with varying materials, lengths, and transparency levels. In order to choose the most suitable one for you, it’s important to consider factors such as the weather, personal comfort, and price. For example, if you’re performing Umrah in the winter, you might prefer a thicker material, and if you’re petite, you may opt for a smaller measurement.
While men’s Ihram attire has specific requirements, women are not restricted to any particular colour or style. They are allowed to wear any type of attire for Ihram, as long as it is loose-fitting and modest, covering their entire body except for their faces and hands. This is because it is prohibited for women to cover their faces and hands during Ihram.
However, despite this freedom in choice, there are still some practical considerations to keep in mind when selecting your attire for Ihram. Here are some tips for you to consider:
