What are the permissible types of Ihram rituals (Ansak)?
Chapter on Mentioning Ihram
Al-Mughni
Book of Hajj
Primary text
Ihram can be initiated for three types of rituals: Tamattu', Ifrad, or Qiran. Tamattu' involves entering Ihram for a singular Umrah from the Miqat during the months of Hajj, and then entering Ihram for Hajj later that year. Ifrad is entering Ihram specifically for Hajj alone. Qiran is combining both Hajj and Umrah in one Ihram, either by intending both simultaneously or by intending Umrah first and then incorporating Hajj before performing the Tawaf. The performance of any of these three forms is valid. Consensus exists among scholars on the permissibility of commencing Ihram with any of the three rituals. Aisha narrated that they performed Hajj with the Prophet (peace be upon him), and some entered Ihram for Umrah, some for both Hajj and Umrah (Qiran), and some only for Hajj (Ifrad).
Supporting text
Scholars differ regarding which of the three forms is superior. The preferred opinion favors Tamattu', then Ifrad, and finally Qiran. This preference is related to the fact that the Prophet (peace be upon him) converted his companions from Ifrad and Qiran to Tamattu' upon completing the initial Tawaf, indicating its preference, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) expressed regret that he could not do the same due to having brought a sacrificial animal (Hady).