(a)State the three different types of Hajj. (b)Highlight the conditions required before the performance of Hajj.

Answer Details

(a) The three types of Hajj

1. Ifrad (single Hajj). The pilgrim enters Ihram for Hajj only, without ‘Umrah joined to it. No animal sacrifice (hady) is required of him.
2. Qiran (combined). The pilgrim enters Ihram for both ‘Umrah and Hajj together, performing them without releasing from Ihram in between; a sacrifice is required.
3. Tamattu‘ (interrupted / enjoyment). The pilgrim performs ‘Umrah in the months of Hajj, releases from Ihram, then enters Ihram again for Hajj on the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah; a sacrifice is required.

(b) Conditions required before the performance of Hajj

1. Islam: the pilgrim must be a Muslim.
2. Sanity (‘aql): he must be of sound mind.
3. Maturity (bulugh): he should have reached the age of puberty; the Hajj of a child does not discharge the obligatory Hajj.
4. Freedom: he must be a free person, not a slave.
5. Financial ability (istita‘ah): he must have lawful means for transport, feeding and lodging, beyond the needs of his dependants, and be free of pressing debt.
6. Physical fitness: he must be healthy enough to undertake the journey and rites.
7. Safety of the route: the road must be secure for life and property.
8. Provision and means of conveyance (zad wa rahilah).
9. A mahram or safe company for a woman.
10. The prescribed months of Hajj (Shawwal, Dhul-Qa‘dah and the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah).

Allah says: "And Hajj to the House is a duty owed to Allah by mankind, for whoever is able to find a way to it" (Q3:97).