During Tawaf, specific attire requirements must be followed. Men and women have distinct guidelines that ensure modesty and adherence to Islamic traditions.
Men's Attire During Tawaf
Men's attire during Tawaf consists of two unsewn cloths:
-
Rida: The top cloth, known as the rida, covers the upper body. Importantly, it should cover the left shoulder at all times. During Tawaf, the right shoulder should be exposed. This act of exposing the right shoulder is called idtiba.
-
Izhar: The bottom cloth, known as the izhar, is wrapped around the waist, covering the area from the navel to the knees.
Important Restrictions for Men:
- Do not wear underwear, socks, or any other sewn clothing.
- Do not cover the head.
- Wear footwear that reveals the ankles and toes.
Women's Attire During Tawaf
Women's attire for Tawaf is their regular modest Islamic dress. The key requirements are:
- Clothing should be loose-fitting and cover the entire body except for the face and hands.
- There are no restrictions on footwear, but it should be modest and comfortable for walking.
Summary Table: Tawaf Attire
| Feature | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Body | Rida (top cloth), right shoulder exposed during Tawaf (Idtiba) | Modest clothing covering the entire upper body except face |
| Lower Body | Izhar (bottom cloth) | Modest clothing covering the entire lower body |
| Head Covering | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Undergarments | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Footwear | Footwear revealing ankles and toes | Any modest and comfortable footwear |
By adhering to these guidelines, pilgrims ensure that their Tawaf is performed correctly and respectfully, aligning with the sacred traditions of Islam.
