Ihram, Miqat, Talbiyah and Prohibitions

Ihram is a ritual state entered with intention and associated rites, not simply wearing two pieces of cloth. Miqat defines designated entry boundaries for intending pilgrims. Restrictions vary in detail, so distinguish acts prohibited in ihram from ordinary etiquette.

Ihram is a state of worship entered for Hajj or Umrah; it is not merely the name of white clothing. In Hanafi study, intention and the required expressions and actions must be learned carefully. A miqat is a designated boundary relevant to entering ihram for those approaching Makkah for pilgrimage. Talbiyah is the pilgrim's call of response to Allah; its wording is known through the Sunnah. During ihram, a pilgrim follows special restrictions that do not apply in exactly the same way outside this state. Students often confuse what is forbidden in ihram with ordinary good manners or with the differences between men's and women's clothing. A clear chart should distinguish the boundary, the intention, the special state and the restrictions. The Qur'an warns against improper conduct and quarrelling during Hajj (2:197). The exact ruling when a person forgets a rule or crosses a boundary depends on the circumstances and should not be guessed from a poster.