ভূমিকা

Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Hajj (The Pilgrimage) Avoiding Certain Actions There are certain things which you are expected to avoid while in the state of Ihram. These include any sort of reminders of your business, position, social class, or race. In essence, all worldly matters belonging to the life before Miqat, are tabooed. The following is a list of specific actions which must not be undertaken: Do not look in a mirror in order not to see your image.

Therefore, forget the "self" temporarily. Do not use nor smell perfume in order not to recall the enjoyable times of the past. You are now in an environment of spirituality. Therefore, smell love! Do not give orders to anyone. Therefore, exercise a sense of brotherhood! Do not harm animals or insects. Therefore, for a few days live as Jesus! Do not break or uproot plants. Therefore, kill the tendencies of aggression by being peaceful toward nature! Do not hunt. Therefore, be merciful to others!

Do not indulge in love making and intercourse, therefore, be inspired by real love! Do not marry or participate in marriage ceremonies. Do not use make up. Therefore, see yourself as you are! Do not be dishonest, argumentative, curseful, (i.e. swear), or arrogant. Do not sew your Ihram. Therefore, evade self - distinction! Do not carry weapons, but if it is necessary place it under your Ihram. Do not stay in the shade. Therefore, be exposed to the sun Do not cover your head (males).

Do not cover your face (females). Do not wear shoes or socks. Therefore, let your feet be bare! Do not use ornaments. Do not cut your hair. Do not clip your nails. Do not use creams. Do not allow blood to flow (example cut yourself). Hajj has begun; hurry toward Allah! In the state of Ihram Say: Labbaika! "God has called upon you. You are here to answer His invitation and be completely obedient to Him." Praise, blessings, and the Kingdom, are for you. There is none like you.

Denying the dishonest, exploitative, and despotic super-powers of the world, the people shout: "Labbaika, Allahomma Labbaika". Everyone, everywhere is addressing Almighty Allah! Imagine, Oh man, you are like an iron particle in a magnetic field! It is as if you are among a million white birds flying above the sky on your way to the Miraj. You are approaching the Kaaba. The closer you get, the more excited you become.

As if it were a wounded wild animal trying to escape from its cage, your heart beats against the wall of your chest.