Ladies’ ihram is not a specific uniform but a sacred state of consecration a woman enters for Umrah or Hajj. It is marked by a specific intention (niyyah) and adherence to a modest dress code that covers the entire body except for the face and hands.
Unlike men, women wear their regular, stitched, modest clothing and are not restricted to two white sheets. The focus is on inner purity and outward modesty. This article will be helpful for the women pilgrims in the USA.
Ladies Ihram
Firstly, it is important to understand that Ihram is a state of being, not just a set of clothes. It is a divine state of ritual purity that a pilgrim enters at a specific point, known as a Miqat, before entering Makkah.
A woman pilgrim wears an ihram by making an intention and reciting talbiyah. The central principle for ladies’ ihram is humility and simplicity, as reflected in their everyday Islamic attire. There is no specific uniform or colour requirement for women.
They are to wear their own modest, stitched clothing, which is a mercy from Allah SWT, providing them with comfort and preserving their modesty throughout the journey. The essence of ihram for women umrah is to shift focus from worldly adornments to spiritual devotion. Many travel agencies in the USA specialise in Umrah packages according to your budget.
Dress Code for Ladies Ihram
There are clear guidelines for clothing a woman should wear; it is not just a uniform. Some of the primary rules for ladies’ ihram attire are that it must be modest and cover from head to toe, leaving only the face and hands exposed.
The Ihram should not be tight; it should be loose-fitting. The material must be thick enough so that it is not transparent or see-through. The clothing should be simple and free from excessive decoration, embroidery, or design that draws attention because the goal is to be humble in front of Allah. There is no prescribed colour for ladies’ Ihram.
While many women prefer to wear white or black to symbolise purity and simplicity, any modest colour is permissible. It is wise to choose light colours if performing Umrah in hot weather. Try to choose a favourite that is breathable and comfortable, like cotton.
Covering the Head
The hijab is an integral part of the ladies’ ihram. It must properly cover all the hair, the ears, the neck, and the chest area. The face, however, must remain uncovered. Ladies who regularly wear the face veil, this is a specific rule of Ihram that must be observed.
While in Ihram, it is not allowed for women to cover their faces. Instead, a cap or visor can be worn underneath the hijab to keep the fabric from touching the face, thus fulfilling the requirement while maintaining a sense of covering.
Now the Saudi government has applied the rule that confirmation of the hotel and transportation is mandatory to obtain an Umrah visa.
Footwear in Ihram
Unlike men, women can wear any closed or open shoes during Ihram — as long as they are modest, clean, and free from fragrance.
The best Umrah shoes for ladies should be flat or low-heeled, supportive and cushioned for long walks. As women are allowed to wear either closed-toe, open-toe, breathable, soft leather is ideal for them. The main goal is comfort and practicality during Hajj or Umrah.
Practical Steps for Entering the State of Ihram
Pilgrims should follow some rituals before entering the state of Ihram, like ghusl, intention, and Talbiyah. These steps show the physical and spiritual cleansing. Pilgrims can also perform ablution if ghusl is not possible.
It is a part of sunnah to attend to personal hygiene, like trimming nails and removing unwanted hair. After the ghusl, pilgrims make an intention of ihram, which is silent and heartfelt. After making the intention in your heart, the pilgrims continuously recite Talbiyah.
In case of unable to complete any ritual, you can say, “Oh Allah, my place of exiting ihram is where you prevent me from proceeding”
Prohibitions and Restrictions of Ladies’ Ihram
Some actions are prohibited when women enter the state of Ihram. Applying any kind of perfume-scented cream, deodorant, or using scented soap is forbidden; use of unscented items during the duration of ihram.
You are not allowed to cut or clip your hair or nails while in ihram. As mentioned, women must not cover their faces with a face veil.
All types of sexual intimacy and acts leading to it are strictly forbidden. Engaging in arguments, disputes, gossip or any form of sinful speech is forbidden. The state of ihram is one of peace, humility and remembrance of Allah.
Conclusion
Entering a state of ihram is not just a physical preparation but also a spiritual connection. Ihram also gives you a sense of happiness that you are going to perform umrah and hajj.
You will see the kaaba and get the high spiritual reward. There are a lot of differences between men and women in ihram, so both have to follow the rules according to the Sunnah.
Ihram signifies purity, humbleness, and devotion to Allah. Ihram is more than just a dress code. It represents that all believers are equal in the sight of Allah.
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