Ishtiraat is derived from an Arabic root that suggests stipulation and abiding by it. In the context of Ihraam, it occurs when a Muslim assuming the state of Ihraam says, “O Allah! I intend to perform Hajj or ‘Umrah, but my dissolution will be if something prevents me.” This thing may be a disease or an enemy, or anything else that prevents a Muslim in the state of Ihraam from completing the rituals. It is not permissible for him to end his state of Ihraam directly if he has not made Ishtiraat.
Allah The Almighty Says (what means): {And complete the Hajj and ‘Umrah for Allah.} [Quran 2:196] Ishtiraat is mentioned in the Sunnah. ‘Aa’ishah, May Allah Be Pleased with her, said: “The Prophet (saw) entered upon ‘Dhubaa‘ah bint Az-Zubayr and asked her if she intended to perform Hajj. When she told him that she was sick, the Prophet (saw) said: “Enter into the state of Ihraam and make Ishtiraat. Say: I would be free from it wherever You (O Allah) Would Detain me.” In another narration, the Prophet (pbuh) added:” This exception frees you from liability before Allah The Almighty.”
