Ihram Rules for Women During Umrah & Hajj – Complete Guide & Prohibitions
Embarking on the sacred journey of Umrah or Hajj is a profound spiritual experience that requires Muslim women to understand and follow the specific requirements of women in Ihram.
This state marks the beginning of the pilgrimage, ensuring it is undertaken with purity, devotion, and focus.
The Ihram rules for ladies may vary slightly across Islamic schools of thought, but the basic framework remains consistent for women across all sects.
Adhering to these rules regarding clothing, behaviour, and rituals is crucial to preserving the sanctity of the pilgrimage.
Women must prepare spiritually and physically before entering the state of Ihram. These preparations ensure they begin the pilgrimage with purity and focus.
The restrictions in Ihram are clear and comprehensive, and observing them ensures a spiritually rewarding journey.
This guide provides an overview of the Ihram rules for women during Hajj and Umrah, helping to ensure a spiritually fulfilling Islamic experience.
What Does It Mean to Be in the State of Ihram?
Ihram is a state of spiritual purity that every Muslim woman and man must enter before performing Umrah or Hajj.
It involves wearing the prescribed clothing, refraining from certain activities, and making a clear intention to perform the pilgrimage with devotion and sincerity.
The term “Ihram” is derived from the Arabic word “Haram,” which signifies sacredness or what is forbidden, underscoring the importance of purity and sanctity during this period.
For women, the observance of Ihram includes specific guidelines related to attire, behaviour, and rituals.
These guidelines ensure that the pilgrimage is performed with the utmost respect and spiritual focus, maintaining the sanctity of the experience.
As part of entering the state of Ihram, it is customary to recite a dua seeking Allah’s (سبحانه وتعالى) blessings, protection, and ease in completing the pilgrimage. One such commonly recited supplication is:
Translation: “O Allah (سبحانه وتعالى), I intend to perform Hajj, make it easy for me, and accept it from me.”
It is also recommended for women to recite a dua for forgiveness and protection during their journey, such as:
Translation: “By Allah! I ask for forgiveness from Allah and turn to Him in repentance more than seventy times a day.“
What to Do Before Entering the State of Ihram
Before entering the state of Ihram, women must prepare by following a set of spiritual and physical actions.
These preparatory steps ensure they can begin their pilgrimage with a clear mind and purified body.
Guides and videos often emphasise the Ihram rules for ladies to ensure women understand the spiritual and physical preparations required in the simplest terms.
Step 1: Purification and Intention (Niyyah)
- Perform Ghusl (Ritual Purification):
Ghusl is essential to ensure physical and spiritual purity. The hadith says, “Cleanliness is half of faith,” highlighting the importance of maintaining women’s Ihram in a state of purity. Before entering Ihram, women should trim their nails and remove unwanted body hair. Additionally, they must use unscented products, avoiding perfume or scented oils, which are strictly prohibited. - Trim Nails and Remove Unwanted Body Hair:
Women should trim their nails and remove unwanted body hair before entering Ihram. This is highly recommended to maintain cleanliness. - Use Unscented Products:
It is essential to avoid using any scented products during the Ihram state. Women can apply unscented lotion if necessary, but perfumes, fragrant oils, or any products with fragrance should be avoided. This ensures that the purity of Ihram is maintained. - Wear the Prescribed Ihram Clothing:
Women should wear loose, simple, and modest clothing that covers the body. Women wear a white, unstitched cloth or a simple dress that covers the body entirely. They must avoid wearing any clothing that is sewn, has adornments, or is tight. - Make the Intention (Niyyah) for Umrah or Hajj:
Women must have a sincere intention to perform Umrah or Hajj for the sake of Allah (سبحانه وتعالى). The purpose is essential as it distinguishes the act of pilgrimage from any other activity. It is important to note that speaking the intention out loud is not required, as the purpose is an internal action. By following the requirements of women in Ihram, women can ensure their pilgrimage begins with sincerity and devotion.
Step 2: Entering Ihram and Reciting Talbiyah
Women should declare their intention for Hajj or Umrah and begin reciting the Talbiyah, a key supplication marking the start of Ihram. It should be recited loudly and frequently, especially on the way to the sacred sites, to express submission and devotion to Allah (سبحانه وتعالى). The Talbiyah is as follows:
Translation: “Here I am, O Allah (سبحانه وتعالى), here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily, all praise, grace, and dominion belong to You. You have no partner.”
While in Ihram, women must also be mindful of the dos and don’ts of this sacred state, maintaining purity and avoiding actions that may invalidate Ihram.
Do’s – Rules of Ihram for Women During the Holy Pilgrimage
When preparing for the state of Ihram, women must understand their actions and the prohibitions they must avoid (Don’ts) to ensure their pilgrimage is by Islamic teachings.
Below are key Ihram rules for ladies during Umrah and Hajj to ensure a spiritually fulfilling experience:
Key Guidelines for Women:
- Wear Modest Clothing:
Women must wear clothing that covers the entire body except for the face and hands. The clothing should be simple, loose, and modest, adhering to Ihram’s guidelines for ladies. Common choices include a hijab to cover the hair and an abaya to maintain modesty while ensuring complete coverage. - Maintain Purity:
Women must maintain a state of purity throughout the pilgrimage by performing regular ablution (wudu) as necessary to remain in a state of physical and spiritual cleanliness. - Recite Talbiyah Frequently:
Frequently reciting Talbiyah (“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk…”) is important during Ihram. It expresses submission to Allah’s call. Reciting it reminds pilgrims of their purpose and enhances their spiritual connection throughout Hajj and Umrah. - Remain Patient and Avoid Arguments:
Pilgrims should strive to remain calm and patient, avoiding disputes, arguments, or hostile behaviour during the pilgrimage. - Perform Salah (Prayers) at Prescribed Times:
Women must ensure they perform the five daily prayers (salah) on time, which are obligatory during the pilgrimage. - Show Kindness and Humility:
Women should be kind, humble, and compassionate towards other pilgrims, fostering a spirit of cooperation and brotherhood. - Follow All Guidelines Set by Islamic Authorities:
Adhering to the rules and guidelines set by Islamic authorities throughout the pilgrimage is essential for ensuring the spiritual integrity of the journey.
Don’ts – Prohibitions While in the State of Ihram
Before beginning the pilgrimage, it is essential to understand and adhere to the prohibitions while in the state of Ihram.
These guidelines ensure spiritual purity and focus, creating an environment that allows the individual to worship without distractions. Violating these prohibitions can break the sanctity of Ihram, and one must take great care to follow these rules. Key Prohibitions for Women:
- Do Not Cover the Face or Hands with Gloves or a Face Veil (Niqab):
Both men and women are prohibited from wearing any type of face covering during Ihram. Women must avoid the niqab or any face veil that covers the face, and men must not cover their faces with masks. It is essential to keep the face uncovered to maintain the state of Ihram.
- Do Not Apply Perfume, Scented Soap, or Deodorant:
Scented products, including perfumes, oils, and deodorants, should be avoided in Ihram. This is to maintain purity and to avoid distractions from the sacredness of the pilgrimage. Both men and women must refrain from using fragrances or scented products during this time.
- Do Not Engage in Marital Relations or Any Intimate Physical Contact:
Engaging in marital relations or intimate physical contact is prohibited while in Ihram. This includes actions that may lead to intimacy, such as hugging or kissing, as they disrupt the sanctity of Ihram and divert attention from worship.
As stated in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:197),
- Do Not Pluck, Trim, or Cut Hair or Nails:
During Ihram, any form of hair removal or nail trimming is prohibited. This includes cutting nails, shaving, or removing body hair. Preserving physical appearance during Ihram is not allowed to ensure that one is focused on the spiritual journey.
- Do Not Engage in Arguments, Fights, or Use Foul Language:
Maintaining good character and behaviour is essential during Ihram. Engaging in arguments, fights, or foul language is prohibited, as it disrupts the peaceful and respectful environment required during the pilgrimage.
The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said:
- Do Not Hunt, Kill, or Harm Animals:
Hunting or killing animals, even pests, is strictly prohibited in Ihram. This is part of respecting all living creatures and the sanctity of the pilgrimage.
Things That Break Ihram for Women
Here is a concise list of actions that break Ihram for ladies Umrah/Hajj:
- Applying Scented Products: Perfumes, deodorants, and scented soaps should not be used.
- Cutting Hair or Nails: Avoid cutting hair or nails.
- Engaging in Marital Intimacy: Any intimate relations are prohibited during Ihram.
- Arguing or Fighting: Avoid verbal conflicts or fights.
- Using Scented Soaps or Lotions: Any scented product will break Ihram.
- Covering the Face: Wearing a niqab or face covering is prohibited.
- Engaging in Prohibited Acts, Such as harming animals or hunting.
These guidelines help ensure the pilgrimage remains a spiritually pure and focused journey.
Urdu
If you want to read Ihram rules for ladies in Urdu click here.
FAQ
If you have any questions regarding the Ihram rules for women during Umrah and Hajj, they are addressed below:
- What to Do If a Woman Gets Her Period During Hajj or Umrah?
A woman on her period should refrain from Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba) until she is pure. She can, however, continue with other acts of worship, such as Dhikr and Duas.
- Can a Woman Wear a Bra During Hajj or Umrah?
Women can wear a bra under their Ihram clothing if it is not made of silk or scented materials.
- Can a Man or Woman Use the Toilet in the State of Ihram?
Yes, using the toilet does not break Ihram. However, scented soaps or tissues should be avoided.
- Can a Woman Wear Shoes During Umrah or Hajj?
Women can wear shoes that do not cover the ankle completely, such as sandals.
- Can a Woman Change Clothes During Hajj or Umrah?
Women can change clothes if they maintain modesty and follow Ihram guidelines.
- Can a Fanny Pack Be Worn During the Pilgrimage?
Yes, fanny packs are allowed as they are not considered stitched clothing.
- Does Arguing Break My State of Ihram?
While arguing does not technically break Ihram, it is discouraged as it goes against the spirit of Hajj and Umrah.
- Does Sleeping Break My State of Ihram?
No, sleeping does not break Ihram. However, care should be taken to avoid any prohibited actions while asleep.
Summary – Ihram Rules for Women During Umrah and Hajj
Ihram is a crucial aspect of Hajj and Umrah that requires women to adhere to specific dress codes, behaviours, and prohibitions.
Following these rules, female pilgrims can undertake their sacred journey with purity and devotion. Observing women’s Ihram guidelines ensures a spiritually rewarding and fulfilling pilgrimage experience.
When preparing for Umrah or Hajj, exploring available Umrah packages and Hajj packages that offer everything needed for a smooth pilgrimage is essential. Most Saudi travel agencies provide tailored packages that cater to different needs and budgets.
It’s also crucial to ensure you have the correct visa for your pilgrimage, as it is required to enter Saudi Arabia for both Umrah and Hajj, especially during busy seasons like Ramadan.
If you’re travelling from the UK, check the updated visa requirements and the available Umrah packages for a hassle-free experience. These packages typically include flights, accommodation, and other services to make your pilgrimage more convenient.
0
0
0% of readers found this article helpful. Did you?
