Idtiba – Sunnah Practice for Hajj and Umrah

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In the Name of Allah—the Most Compassionate, Most Merciful.

Idtiba is a Sunnah act performed by men during specific rounds of Tawaf in Hajj and Umrah. It means passing the upper cloth of the Ihram under the right arm and over the left shoulder, leaving the right shoulder uncovered.

This was the way of the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم), and Muslims carry it forward today. It is done to show discipline and unity while performing tawaf.

What is Idtiba in Islam?

Idtiba refers to uncovering the right shoulder during Tawaf. This is practiced only by men. The upper cloth of the Ihram is wrapped under the right arm and draped over the left.

It represents how the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) performed Tawaf in Makkah.


What Does the Word “Idtiba” Mean?

The word comes from a root that means to expose or uncover. In Hajj and Umrah, it means revealing the right shoulder during Tawaf.

This is not done during prayer or any other act. It is only recommended during the seven circles around the Kaaba.


When to Perform Idtiba

muslim man performing idtiba

Men perform Idtiba before starting the Tawaf of Umrah or the arrival Tawaf in Hajj. It ends before praying at Maqam Ibrahim. It is not done during Tawaf al-Ifadah, farewell Tawaf, or any supererogatory acts.

Knowing when to do it helps avoid confusion and keeps your actions in line with Sunnah acts. (Scholars base this on narrations from Ibn Abbas and works like Al-Majmu’ and Al-Mughni.)

Which Tawaf Does Idtiba Apply To?

Idtiba applies to the Tawaf al-Qudum (arrival Tawaf) and the Tawaf of Umrah. It does not apply to other forms like farewell Tawaf and extra voluntary Tawaf done in the Kaaba area.

Hadiths Regarding Idtiba

Hadiths from companions like Ibn Abbas show that the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) performed Idtiba during Makkah entering. These narrations give the base for doing it in Umrah Hajj today.

Is Idtiba Compulsory?

No. Idtiba is not mandatory. Missing it does not break your Tawaf. It’s one of the Sunnah acts. Muslims follow this Sunnah to walk in the path of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم).


FAQ

Summary – Idtiba

Idtiba is a physical action done during Tawaf in Hajj and Umrah. It connects the pilgrim to the history of Tawaf. It also shows respect for the method taught by the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم).

It is not forced, but when done with intention, it becomes part of a complete ritual.

To learn how to perform Tawaf correctly, remember the roles of Idtiba, Istilam ki Dua, Ramal, and other Sunan acts. These details will shape the full experience of your pilgrimage.