Q: Last year, I went to perform the obligatory Hajj and I made the intention to perform Ifrad Hajj (performing Hajj only). However, I took off Ihram (clothing worn during the ritual state for Hajj and `Umrah) and shortened some of my hair before standing at `Arafah. Please enlighten me as to what I should do, may Allah benefit you.

A: If shortening of your hair and taking off your Ihram happened after you had performed Tawaf (circumambulation of the Ka`bah) and Sa`y (going between Safa and Marwah during Hajj and `Umrah), this is considered as Tahallul (removal of the ritual state for Hajj and `Umrah) following `Umrah. Accordingly, you are considered as Mutamatti` (pilgrim performing `Umrah during the months of Hajj, followed by Hajj in the same year with a break in between), and you should offer a Hady (sacrificial animal offered by pilgrims), due to the Saying of Allah (Exalted be He): Then if you are in safety and whosoever performs the ‘Umrah in the months of Hajj, before (performing) the Hajj, (i.e. Hajj-at-Tamattu‘ and Al-Qirân), he must slaughter a Hady such as he can afford which you should slaughter now in Makkah to make up for missing it during the Hajj time. However, if you cannot afford to offer Hady, you should observe Sawm (fast) for ten days. On the other hand, if you did not perform Tawaf and Sa`y before shortening your hair, this is considered an act of a prohibition, which you are excused from because of your ignorance of the ruling, and it will not affect the validity of your Ifrad Hajj. Also, you are not required to offer Fidyah (ransom, i.e., sacrificial animal) according to the correct scholarly opinion. (Part No. 10; Page No. 125) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.