The act of purity is called Ihram and it is chosen by Muslims as they are dedicating themselves to perform Hajj or Umrah. It is also the start of one of the most spiritual hearts a Muslim would ever want to make; the journey to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. But this divine state also has its rules and prohibitions which are to be adhered to. The holy pilgrimage can be canceled by virtually any infringement of these principles and the wrongdoer can even be punished by the means of human sacrifice or some other way of expiation. Salah Travels is aware of the significance of these directions and the strong bond to an act of worship, they symbolize. What are the things that we cannot do when wearing Ihram? This is a question that we will answer in this article and also the most important regulations that must be followed by every Muslim during this holy state.
What is Ihram?
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Actually, the dressing in Ihram is more than dressing in a certain attire; it means being in a state of purity both mentally and physically. As soon as an individual gets into this condition, there are prohibitions imposed to certain actions and some may be of little consequence under normal conditions but nonetheless are perceived as grave offences of Ihram. The principles of Islamic teachings and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), described in them, contain these rules.
Key Ihram Rules
The Ihram pilgrim should adhere to some regulations and codes that will be upholding the sanctity of the state. It has some fundamental restrictions, and they can be both strictly forbidden and acts, which should be avoided. These are some of the major restrictions that occur during Ihram:
- Hair-cutting or Nail-cutting
Another widespread taboo is that hair or nail has to be cut. As soon as pilgrims are in Ihram, they are not allowed to cut their hair or nail. This is done to ensure that the person is pure throughout the period that he is in state of Ihram.
- Wearing Perfume
Use of perfumes or other scented things is also prohibited. This consists of everything that is highly scented i.e. lotions, oils or scented soaps. This rule aims at ensuring that the pilgrim is not distracted by the things of the world but that he or she is only to think how to worship Allah.
- Sexual Relations
Also Ihram strictly forbids sexual relations. It is one of the most important rules to observe since it underlines the fact that pilgrimage has purely spiritual goal. Any type of intimacy will disqualify the state of Ihram and it can possibly incur a penalty.
- Killing or Hunting of Animals
Hunting or killing of animals is also another prohibition. This not only entails large animals but also classes of the small creatures like birds and insects. This exemption arises only when there is the issue of self-defense, i.e. when there is endangering the welfare of the pilgrim, e.g., by an animal.
- Being involved in Conflict or Quarreling
Obscene language, quarreling or fighting are all behaviour not acceptable in Ihram. Pilgrims are supposed to be peaceful and calm. This rule is a reminder not to be harsh and cruel but to be kind and gentle which is the spiritual purity that a person is supposed to take during this holy period.
- Using Intoxicants
Putting on intoxicants like alcohol, drugs or any other thing that makes one lose their senses during the Ihram is strongly discouraged. Pilgrims should have clear minds and souls at this time and these drugs interfere with the condition of being spiritually clean.
- Dressing in Particular Clothes by Men
Men are not allowed to wear clothes that have been sewn, like shirt, pants or any other thing that are tight to the body. The exception is only in the case of people who cannot wear the Ihram garment because they are ill or injured. This prohibition represents equality of all pilgrims before Allah.
- Men wearing a scarf on the head
Other establishments like wearing a cap, hat or anything like that over the head is also forbidden to men once they are in the state of Ihram. This is the rule of humility and sitting everyone on the same level before Allah seems to be not comprised of their status in the society.
Ihram Rules for Women
Although men and women have most of the same rules that apply in the time of Ihram, there exists some differences. They do not put the face or hands covered of women in the state of Ihram. They however get to wear modest clothes which must cover their body as a whole. The clothes must neither be tight nor show the figure of their body like it is in the Islamic ideology of modesty.
Females could wear sandals but not to reveal the upper part of their foot. They also do not have the permission to use fragrance and any form of intimate relationship like men do.
Forbidden Acts in Ihram
Ihram Rules and How They Relate to the Spiritual Journey
The rules of the Ihram are closely related to pilgrimage on the spiritual level. They do not only imply prohibitions on any acts, but they are rules of conduct that empower pilgrims to concentrate only on their piety towards Allah. All the taboos are aimed at maximizing the purity of intentions of the pilgrim and making sure that he or she remains focused on the sacredness of the journey. By avoiding the worldly pleasures, one can focus on the acts of worship, making the supplementations and striving to become closer to Allah. Adherence to these rules forms part of the cleansing process with the result that the pilgrim comes out of it spiritually rejuvenated.
Ihram Rules and The Importance of Intentions
In Ihram your intentions are very important. As soon as you are in this state, it is important to keep in mind that any activity that is done ought to be in line with goal of worship. Breaking one of the rules of Ihram either intentionally or unintentionally does have a penalty and one should compensate any mistakes they make. But the mercy of Allah is great and repentance and penitence may always take place. Salah Travels feels the importance of a clear focused intent along with this sacred travel so that in the course of every step religious development and dedicated activity is being made.
Ihram Rules – Understanding the Consequences
Not observing the Ihram regulations may cause punishment. These may vary in the form of giving a sacrifice including an animal, fasting or paying some money. Nevertheless, the punishment must not deter a traveller to comply with the regulations. They do not instead, remind them of the necessity to be pure during this holy period. According to Salah Travels, pilgrims should do an adequate amount of research concerning the Ihram regulations and take precautionary measures to prevent making errors during pilgrimage.
Conclusion
The Ihram is not only the physical condition but also the spiritual. It causes pilgrims to get in a state of purity, humility and devotion. Observing the rules of Ihram is an indispensable component of pilgrimage and observing these rules, the Muslims will be able to make sure that his or her Hajj or Umrah will be accepted by Allah. Salah Travels advises pilgrims to consider the Ihram regulations, respect the sanctity of this state and learn the significance of things they do within this period. When pilgrims are prepared and have the good intention, there is a good chance that they can make the most of their spiritual journey and gain the ultimate goal of intimacy with Allah and new faith.
