What the pilgrims do on the eighth day of Dhu al-Hijjah

Question: What does the pilgrim do on the eighth day of Dhu al-Hijjah?

Answer: The eighth day is the place for entering the state of ihram if one is in Makkah and has already exited the state of ihram, or if one intends to perform Hajj and is a resident of Makkah. The best for him is to enter the state of ihram on the eighth day; because the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) ordered his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) who had exited the state of ihram from 'Umrah to do so, so they entered the state of ihram for Hajj on the eighth day and then proceeded to Mina. This is the best for the pilgrim: he enters the state of ihram from his home, takes a bath, applies perfume, wears the two pieces of cloth, and proceeds to Mina in the state of ihram. He does not need to bid farewell, whether his residence is in the Sacred Precinct or outside it.
Likewise, the woman from her home or her camp or any place takes a bath, applies appropriate perfume, and wears appropriate clothing that does not cause fitnah (trial, discord or temptation). She enters the state of ihram and proceeds to Mina without the need to bid farewell. This is the recommended practice on the eighth day. If he enters the state of ihram before that, there is no blame on him, but the eighth day is the best. If he delays until he enters the state of ihram on the ninth day, there is no blame on him either, but entering the state of ihram on the eighth day is the best, as mentioned earlier; because the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) ordered his Companions to do so.