Is performing Ghusl (ritual bath) obligatory before entering Ihram?
Chapter on Mentioning Ihram
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
Performing Ghusl before entering Ihram is recommended according to the majority of scholars, including Tawus, Al-Nakha'i, Malik, Al-Thawri, Al-Shafi'i, and the Ashab Al-Ra'y (Hanafis). The evidence for this is the narration that the Prophet, peace be upon him, stripped off his clothing for Ihram and performed Ghusl, and that he commanded Asma bint 'Umais (while she was post-natal bleeding) and 'A'ishah (while she was menstruating) to perform Ghusl upon intending Ihram. Furthermore, since Hajj involves large gatherings, Ghusl is prescribed for it, similar to the Friday prayer.
Supporting text
The consensus among scholars, according to Ibn al-Mundhir, is that entering Ihram is valid without Ghusl, and it is not obligatory. A narration from Al-Athram suggests Imam Ahmad expressed astonishment at the view that a person who forgets Ghusl owes a penalty (Fidyah/Dam) because the Prophet commanded it specifically for a menstruating or post-natal woman. Ibn Umar sometimes performed Ghusl and sometimes Wudu' (ablution) before Ihram, indicating flexibility.