by Jaimela King

Created on: November 15, 2009   Last Updated: November 17, 2009

It is described as the world's largest pilgrimage and it is a moral obligation that Muslims are expected to carry out at least once in their lifetime. Hajj or Pilgrimage to Mecca is the fifth pillar of Islam and takes place on the 7th to 13th day of the 12th month in the Islamic calendar (Dhu al-Hijjah). There are many rules that apply to pilgrims taking part in the Hajj including the proper dress code.

The dress code for the Hajj applies to men and women. Men are expected to dress in the ihram. The Ihram is comprised of a pair of sheets of white fabric that is not hemmed. While there are differences of opinion on the correct wearing of the ihram but generally, one of the sheets is draped around the body from the waist down, and the other is gathered around the shoulder. The bottom portion is secured by a sash and a pair of sandals completes the outfit.

There are fewer rules applied to dress for women participating in Hajj. They are, however, expected to wear modest clothing and their hands and face should not be covered. It is, however, common to see women wearing long white robes.

It is important for the pilgrim to understand the restrictions that accompany the wearing of the ihram. Clothing worn on the Hajj should not have any knots, nor should any item worn be stitched. Even the sandals worn should not have any stitching. If for any reason, a pilgrim has to wear something that is stitched or cut their hair, they should offer a redemption or (Fidya).

While wearing the ihram, there are other requirements that help the pilgrim concentrate on spiritual devotion. There should be no fighting, hunting, or bad language used. Any acts of vanity are frowned upon like the wearing of too much perfume, makeup and nail and hair grooming.

Once the pilgrim puts on ihram, he or she is now in the state of Ihram and it is an expression of their intention to perform Hajj. If for any reason like illness, the pilgrim is unable to confirm to the expected dress code, he or she is expected to sacrifice an animal to atone for this. The ihram must also be removed. Depending upon the specific circumstance of failure to comply with the dress code, the pilgrim has other options available for sacrifice.

The dress code for Hajj is fairly uncomplicated unless you are unable to fully comply. The ihram clothing serves the purpose of making everyone appear as equals as they are in the eyes of Allah. The dress also creates a sense of unity as they all come together to worship Allah.

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