Is it required to specify the intended Hajj type (Ifrad, Qiran, Tamattu) upon entering Ihram?
Chapter on Mentioning Ihram
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
It is recommended to specify what one enters Ihram for, which is the position held by Malik. The evidence for specification comes from the Prophet, peace be upon him, commanding his companions to enter Ihram with a specified ritual: 'Whoever among you wishes to declare Ihram for Hajj and Umrah, let him do so; and whoever wishes to declare Ihram for Hajj, let him do so; and whoever wishes to declare Ihram for Umrah, let him do so.' Furthermore, the Prophet and his Companions entered Ihram with a specified ritual, as mentioned in authentic narrations. Those Companions who accompanied the Prophet on his Hajj pilgrimage were the most knowledgeable regarding his actions and commands, both apparent and hidden.
Supporting text
Al-Shafi'i, according to one of his two opinions, holds that making a general declaration (not specifying) is superior. This is supported by the narration of Taus, who stated that the Prophet exited Madinah without specifying Hajj, awaiting the ruling. The ruling came to him while between Safa and Marwah, and he commanded those Companions who were eligible and did not have sacrificial animals (hady) with them to change their intention to Umrah. The rationale provided for this general declaration is that it is more cautious, as one cannot be certain against obstruction (ihsar) or the inability to complete Hajj, thus converting it to Umrah suffices.