Mask in Ihraam

&nbsp;One among the prohibitions which come into effect when in Ihram is that, for both men and women, cloth should not touch the face at all. &nbsp;If the face is covered when in Ihram, then it is not only a sin, but also makes expiation (Kaffara) compulsory. &nbsp;If it is covered with a valid reason, it will not be a sin, but still the expiation has to be met. &nbsp; <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>First of all, the Hajis should place absolute trust in Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala) that Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala) will surely grant them the blessings of the health-giving and invigorating atmosphere of the Haramain, the purity of which in itself removes our difficulties.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>Still, if someone uses a mask, which covers either 1/4th or the entire face, the Fuqaha (Islamic Law Experts) have described the same ruling for both. &nbsp;There are 2 kinds of people who will use the mask:</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>1. &nbsp;The first, who are completely sure that they will not get the disease, but still want to use the mask as a precaution. &nbsp;For them there are 3 cases:</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>1. &nbsp;If the mask is used for less than 1 hour, then a handful of grain should be given in charity.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>2. &nbsp;If the mask is used for less than 24 hours, then 1 Sadqa Fitr becomes Wajib.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>3. &nbsp;If the mask is used for more than 24 hours, no matter how many days, then 1 Dam (sacrifice of a goat or such) becomes Wajib. &nbsp;</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>2. &nbsp;The second, who are not so sure, but still has a doubt that he/she may get affected by a contagious disease like swine flu, then this becomes a valid reason, for which there is no blame on them of any kind. &nbsp;Here also, there are 3 cases:</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>1. &nbsp;If the mask is used for less than 1 hour, then a handful of grain should be given in charity.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>2. &nbsp;If the mask is used for less than 24 hours, then they have a choice, they may give 1 Sadqa Fitr or fast for 1 day.</div> <div>&nbsp;</div> <div>3. &nbsp;If the mask is used for more than 24 hours, no matter how many days, then they may choose between 3 things: either a Dam (sacrifice of a goat or such) r they may give 1 Sadqa Fitr to 6 needy (Miskin) each or they may fast for 3 days.</div>