The Ihram & Intention

Before reaching the Miqat (the boundary), cleanse yourself (Ghusl) and put on the Ihram garments. For men, this is two unstitched white cloths. For women, it is any modest Islamic dress.

Tawaf (Circulation)

Enter Masjid al-Haram with your right foot. Approach the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad) and begin your seven rounds of circumambulation counter-clockwise.

During the first three rounds, men should move at a brisk pace (Raml) with the right shoulder uncovered (Idtiba).

Sa’i (The Walk)

Head to the hills of Safa and Marwah. You must walk between these two hills seven times (Safa to Marwah is one, Marwah back to Safa is two).

This commemorates the struggle of Hajar (AS) searching for water for her son Isma'il (AS).

Halq or Taqsir

The final step! To exit the state of Ihram, men must shave their heads (Halq) or trim them equally (Taqsir). Women should trim their hair by the length of a fingertip.