ISLAMABAD, May 2026: As Hajj 2026 approaches, pilgrims preparing for Hajj and Umrah must understand Halq and Taqsir, the final rituals required to exit the state of Ihram. These acts are performed after completing the essential rites of Hajj or Umrah and mark the process known as Tahallul.
For men, Halq means completely shaving the head, while Taqsir refers to shortening the hair. Women do not shave their heads and are only required to slightly trim their hair. Islamic scholars classify both acts as obligatory parts of the rites (Manasik) of Hajj and Umrah.
What are Halq and Taqsir?
Halq is the complete shaving of the head using a razor or blade.
Taqsir means trimming or shortening the hair and may be performed using scissors or a trimmer.
After completing Tawaf and Sa‘i in Umrah, pilgrims must perform either Halq or Taqsir to properly exit Ihram. During Hajj, the ritual is also required after the prescribed rites are completed.
Qur’anic evidence regarding Halq and Taqsir
The Holy Qur’an refers to both acts in Surah Al-Fath:
“Muhalliqina ru’usakum wa muqassirin”
“Some will have their heads shaved, and others will have their hair shortened.” (Surah Al-Fath 48:27)
Islamic scholars explain that this verse confirms Halq and Taqsir as prescribed rituals within Hajj and Umrah.
The virtue of shaving the head is further highlighted in Hadith. During Hajj, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ prayed:
“Allahumma ighfir lil-muhalliqin”
“O Allah, forgive those who shave their heads.”
When the companions repeatedly asked about those who trim their hair, the Prophet ﷺ eventually included them in the supplication after first praying multiple times for those who shave their heads.
How to perform Halq and Taqsir
For men, one of the following is required:
- Completely shaving the head (Halq)
- Trimming hair from the entire head (Taqsir)
Scholars state that cutting only a few strands of hair is not sufficient.
For women, shaving the head is not permitted. Instead, they should gather their hair together and cut approximately one fingertip length, generally understood as around one inch.
According to scholarly guidance, either all hair should be trimmed or at least one-quarter of the head should be included in the trimming.
Important rules pilgrims should know
Pilgrims must complete Halq or Taqsir correctly to exit Ihram.
Many scholars consider Halq more virtuous for men because of the special supplication made by the Prophet ﷺ for those who shave their heads.
Women should only trim their hair slightly and should not shave their heads under any circumstance.
Islamic rulings also clarify that improper trimming or shaving may affect the completion of Tahallul.
Common questions about Halq and Taqsir
Pilgrims frequently ask whether they may cut their own hair, how women with layered hair should trim it, or what bald individuals should do.
Islamic scholars generally permit a person to shave or trim their own hair. Women with layered hair are advised to trim from the ends collectively. A bald person symbolically passes a razor over the head to complete the ritual.
Why Halq and Taqsir are important
Halq and Taqsir symbolise humility, obedience and completion of the pilgrimage rites. These acts formally mark the end of Ihram restrictions and represent an important stage in both Hajj and Umrah.
Correct understanding of these rituals helps pilgrims complete their worship properly and avoid confusion during the pilgrimage.
Also read: Hajj Guide 2026: What is Sa‘i between Safa and Marwah? Steps, rules and significance explained
You may also read: Hajj Guide 2026: What is Tawaf? Rules, steps and types explained
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