The niqab is not allowed for women in ihram (the state of consecration) during Hajj because it is considered a face covering that is fitted or shaped to the face.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
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The Prohibition in Ihram: When a woman enters the state of ihram for Hajj or Umrah, certain restrictions apply, including restrictions on clothing.
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Analogy to Men's Attire: Scholars often draw a parallel between a woman's face and a man's entire body in ihram. Just as a man is forbidden from wearing tailored clothing that is shaped to the body (like stitched shirts or pants), a woman is prohibited from wearing coverings fitted to the face, such as the niqab.
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Reasoning Behind the Prohibition: The fundamental reason is to avoid covering the face with something that closely adheres to it. The face must remain uncovered as a sign of humility and devotion before Allah.
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Permissible Alternatives: While the niqab is not allowed, women in ihram are permitted to cover their faces in the presence of non-mahram men (men they are permitted to marry) using a khimar (headscarf) or similar covering that doesn't touch the face directly. They can drape it loosely.
In essence, the prohibition on the niqab during Hajj aims to ensure that the face, like a man's body in ihram, remains uncovered, demonstrating humility and adherence to the rules of ihram.
