Do I have to perform `Umrah before I can perform Hajj?

A: You are permitted to enter Ihram (ritual state for Hajj or `Umrah) to perform any of the three types of Hajj: Tamattu`, Qiran or Ifrad Hajj. Tamattu` Hajj: In this type of Hajj, which is the best type, a pilgrim performs `Umrah during the months of Hajj followed by Hajj in the same year with a break in between. It is required in this type of Hajj to offer a Fidyah (ransom, i.e., sacrificial animal) for Tamattu`, if the pilgrim is a non-resident of Al-Masjid Al-Haram. Qiran Hajj: In this type of Hajj, a pilgrim combines between Hajj and `Umrah without a break in between. The pilgrim must remain in the state of Ihram until the rituals of throwing the pebbles at the Jamarat (stone pillars marking the pebble-throwing areas) and shaving or shortening the hair on the day of `Eid (the Festival of the Sacrifice) are completed. Having fulfilled this, all the acts prohibited during Ihram become permissible for the pilgrim except having intercourse with one's spouse. After that, the pilgrim has to perform Tawaf (circumambulation of the Ka`bah) and Sa`y (going between Al-Safa and Al-Marawah during Hajj and `Umrah) for both Hajj and `Umrah. Major Tahallul (final removal of the ritual state for Hajj and `Umrah) can then be performed. (Part No. 10; Page No. 10) This type also requires the pilgrim to offer a Fidyah like a Mutamatti` (pilgrim performing `Umrah during the months of Hajj, followed by Hajj in the same year with a break in between). Ifrad Hajj: In this type of Hajj, a pilgrim performs Hajj only. The pilgrim must remain in the state of Ihram until they finish all the rituals of Hajj, as clarified earlier. It is not required in this type of Hajj to offer a Fidyah. Also, it is not required to perform `Umrah unless the pilgrim has never performed `Umrah before.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.