This divesting must not entail exposing one’s private parts before people; if it does, it is unlawful. But what should he do? We say: Put on the waist-wrapper first, then fasten it around yourself; then remove the shirt, and then put on the upper wrap. For if he were to remove the tailored garment—namely, the shirt—before putting on the waist-wrapper, his private parts would be exposed.

His statement, “in a white waist-wrapper and upper wrap,” means that his attire while in ihram should consist of a white waist-wrapper and upper wrap, based on the Prophet’s saying—may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him: “Let each of you enter ihram wearing a waist-wrapper, an upper wrap, and sandals.” (1)

His saying—may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him—“Let each of you enter ihram wearing a waist-wrapper and an upper wrap,” includes both a stitched waist-wrapper, whose parts have been sewn together, and an unrestricted waist-wrapper wrapped around the body; both are permissible. Thus, if a person in ihram sews the waist-wrapper, it is permissible; if he wraps it around himself, it is permissible; and if he makes a pocket in it for money or other items, it is permissible. The Prophet—may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him—did not restrict the matter, and where he did not impose a restriction, whatever is called a waist-wrapper is indeed a waist-wrapper.

His statement, “white,” is because white garments are the best clothing. Is it recommended for them to be new, or is that a condition? The answer is: It is not a condition, though the cleaner they are, the better. For when the Companions—may Allah be pleased with them—asked the Messenger—may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him—about a man who likes his garment and sandals to be fine, he said: “Indeed, Allah