Is it permissible for a person in Ihram to tie their lower garment (Izar)?
Chapter on What the Muhrim Must Avoid and What is Permissible for Him
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
It is permissible to tie the lower garment because the wearer requires it to cover the private parts, similar to women's clothing. If the waist is fastened with a cloth, rope, or trousers, it is allowed provided it is not tied into a knot. The majority of scholars permit wearing the *himyan* (waist belt or purse), including Ibn Abbas, Ibn Umar, Said ibn al-Musayyab, Ata, Mujahid, Tawus, Al-Qasim, Al-Nakhai, Al-Shafi'i, Ishaq, Abu Thawr, and the Ahl al-Ra'y. If one can secure the garment by tucking the straps into themselves without tying, they should do so, as tying is unnecessary. However, tying is permitted if securing it otherwise is impossible. Evidence supporting the permissibility of the *himyan* includes the report that the Prophet, peace be upon him, permitted it when the pilgrim's provisions were inside it, and the analogy that tying the Izar is permitted due to need.
Supporting text
Tying is prohibited if it is not necessary. Some early authorities disliked the *himyan* and the *mintaqah* (girdle) unless they contained provisions. Ahmad considered wearing the *mintaqah* for back pain permissible only upon paying the ransom (*fidyah*), differentiating it from the *himyan* which is typically for provisions.