THERE are special dress codes for male and female pilgrims while observing the hajj.
According to Fiji Muslim League (FML), male pilgrims are required to dress only in the ihram -- this a garment consisting of two sheets of white unhemmed cloth, with the top draped over the torso and the bottom secured by a white sash, and a pair of sandals.
Women are simply required to maintain their hijab -- normal modest dress, which does not cover the hands or face.
"The ihram is meant to show equality of all pilgrims in the eyes of Allah, and that there is no difference between a prince and a pauper.
Ihram is also symbolic for holy virtue and pardon from all past sins," the FML said. A place designated for changing to ihram is called a migat.
While wearing the ihram, a pilgrim may not shave, clip his nails, wear perfume, swear or quarrel, hunt, kill any animal, have sexual relations, uproot or damage plants, cover the head (for men) or the face and hands (for women), marry, wear shoes over the ankles, perform any dishonest act or carry a weapon.
