Ihram

Introduction:
Ihram is a state of sacred purity that Muslims must enter before going on the Hajj. Ihram can be traced back to times before Muhammad and advent of Islam. A person in the state of Ihram is called a Muhrim (masc.) or Muhrima (fem.). There are many rules that each Muslim must follow during Ihram. If a Muslim does not follow those rules, then it could distrupt their relationship with Allah (God). Also, the Muslim men wear two white cotton cloths; one is on their left sholder, and the other goes around their waist. The woman wear long white robes. This clothing represents total equality between Muslims and is one of the most sacred aspects of Ihram. A cleansing ritual and a recitation of the Tabliyah are used to begin the Hajj. Without all of these rituals, the Muslims wouldn't be able to go on the Hajj or have a good relationship with Allah. Through Ihram, Muslims purify themselves, which allows them to have inner peace and peace with Allah.

~Brianne~

__**Subtopic #1: The Talbiyah**__
The Talbiyah is very important to the state of Ihram during the Hajj, a journey to Mecca. One reason is that in order for all Muslims to enter the state of Ihram, they must first recite the Talbiyah. The Talbiyah is a type of poem that every Muslim memorizes because it is repeatedly said during Ihram. Talbiyah goes like this; Labbayk. Labbayk. La shareeka laka. Labbayk. Innal-hamda wan-n'imata laka wal-mulk. La shareeka lak."// || (Here we come, O Allah, here we come! Here we come. No partner have You. Here we come! Praise indeed, and blessings, are Yours---the Kingdom too! No partner have You!) || Talbiyah should be pronounced in a loud voice unless a woman who is reciting the Talbiyah is surrounded by men who are not her relatives. If this is the case, then the woman should pronounce Talbiyah in a subdued voice. During Ihram, one should recite the Talbiyah as often as possible. In addition, once a Muslim in the state of Ihram has entered Mecca, he or she should say the Tabliyah with enthusiasm and fondness. Those are many reasons to why the Tabliyah is very important to the state of Ihram.
 * //"Labbayk, Allahumma

~Brianne~

Subtopic #2: The Rules of Ihram
There are many rules to Ihram, all of which must be followed in order to complete the Hajj and keep inner peace and connection with Allah. The most critical rule is that the poem, the Talbiyah, must be memorized. This is because the poem is recited multiple times during the Hajj and while in Ihram. There are a large number of smaller rules that must be followed, but they are all very important to not break, because they will all void the state of Ihram when broken. These rules consist of not swearing, not being negative or mean, not having sexual activity, and not cutting ones nails (for women). Both sexes must wear the proper garments. Men must shave their head, cut their nails, shave their beard, and wear the traditional garments worn for Ihram. The cleansing ritual must also be completed before entering Ihram. This ritual cleans the soul of their sins and symbolizes the washing away of negativity and anger. The last main rule that restricts actions while in Ihram is that when in Ihram, you cannot kill animals or humans, unless there is danger presented, and it is for self defense. --Only men are required to trim their nails--Men must cut their hair off before entering Ihram --Men also must shave their facial hair, for example, a beard. --The proper garments for men to wear --The proper garments for women to wear -Alex

Conclusion:
The state of Ihram is a very critical and significant portion of the Hajj. There are many different rules, some of which are very specific, and some of which are very broad and enclose many different actions in one's life. The rules help guide the Muslims through their Hajj, and keep them focused. Without the aid of these rules and guidelines, the connection and focus on Allah would be lost, and the sacred pilgrimage would not be completed to its best. The Talbiyah is also a major part of Ihram. This poem leads all of the Muslims entering Ihram into the pious state. The state of Ihram must not be broken, and if it is, it will void the Hajj. Also before the entrance to Ihram, the pilgrims must cleanse their soul of their sins and negative thoughts. Anger and hate are all forbidden during Ihram. Lastly, this state of being during the great journey to Mecca is very important to Islamic religion, and helps all pilgrims on their way throughout the Hajj.


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