Ihram is a sacred state of worship that Muslims enter to perform the Islamic pilgrimages of Hajj or Umrah: State Muslims enter the state of Ihram by performing cleansing rituals and wearing the prescribed Ihram clothing. Clothing Ihram clothing is plain, ceremonial clothing that removes social differences and wealth representations. Men's Ihram clothing often consists of two white unhemmed sheets. Rituals Once in the state of Ihram, Muslims refrain from certain activities, such as shaving their head, clipping their nails, or covering their head. Intention Muslims must intend to perform the pilgrimage and recite Talbiyah, which is the first pillar of Hajj and Umrah. Equality Ihram and Hajj are times of equality, where men and women renounce the temptations of the world and vanity. The word Ihram comes from the Arabic word ihrām, which comes from harama, meaning "he forbade".