If you’ve ever stood under a night sky and felt small yet deeply connected to something greater, you’ve already touched a piece of what Hajj means. It’s not a pilgrimage—it’s a journey of the soul back home.
Millions of Muslims from across the globe assemble in the holy city of Makkah every year to perform Hajj, a centuries-old practice that goes back to the Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.).
But did you know Islam has 3 types of Hajj—Hajj Ifrad, Hajj Qiran, and Hajj Tamattu—each of which is practiced in its own way, subject to its own rules, and imbued with its own spiritual meaning?
Come with us along the rich tapestry of Hajj history, delve into the deep meaning, and deconstruct the various types of Hajj in simple, human terms—so that not only do you know it, but feel it as well.
The History of Hajj: A Heritage of Obedience
The history of Hajj stretches back much farther than Islam of today. Its origin is Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.), to whom Allah had ordered to take his wife Hajar and their infant son Ismail to leave them in the dry valley of Makkah.
In intense faith, Hajar ran back and forth between Safa hills and Marwa hills looking for water—an incident which has come to be symbolized in the act of Sa’i.
Subsequently, Allah ordered Ibrahim (A.S.) and Ismail (A.S.) to build the Kaaba, which is the house of Allah. The command to invite people for pilgrimage was given, and amazingly, people even responded to that invitation centuries later—”Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk!”
Importance of Hajj: For the Soul, the Society, and the World
Hajj is not just a pilgrimage; it’s the fifth pillar of Islam. Its rites are richly symbolic, reenacting the narratives of sacrifice, devotion, humility, and oneness.
Importance of Hajj for the Individual:
On a personal level, Hajj is a chance to start anew. Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.) would say: “Whoever goes for Hajj and does not commit any obscenity or wrongdoing, will come out as the day he was born—pure from sins.” It’s a new beginning, both spiritually and emotionally.
Importance of Hajj for Society:
When millions of Muslims assemble, all of them clad in simple white robes, it removes social disparities. There is no rich or poor—only souls before their Creator. It fosters compassion, forbearance, and harmony.
Importance of Hajj Rituals to the Muslims:
Every ritual of Hajj is imbued with essence. From being present in Arafat to throwing stones at the Jamarat, every move relates a Muslim to the tradition of religion and submission.
How Many Types of Hajj in Islam?
Numerous individuals inquire: “How many types of Hajj are there?”
There exist three types of Hajj in Islam:
- Hajj Ifrad
- Hajj Qiran
- Hajj Tamattu
Let’s go through each, compare them, and step through their step-by-step procedures.
1. Hajj Ifrad
Meaning: Meaning: “Ifrad” refers to doing Hajj exclusively, excluding Umrah in the same trip.
Best For: Individuals residing in or around Saudi Arabia, particularly Makkah residents.
Hajj Ifrad Steps (Hajj e Ifrad Step by Step)
- Enter Ihram with the intention (Niyyah) of Hajj alone.
- Do Tawaf al-Qudum (optional).
- Do Sa’i between Safa and Marwa (can be delayed).
- Reside in Mina on 8th Dhul Hijjah.
- Arafat on 9th Dhul Hijjah (pillar of extreme importance).
- Muzdalifah overnight stay.
- Stoning (Rami) of Jamarat, Qurbani not necessary.
- Tawaf al-Ifadah, Sa’i if not performed before.
- Tawaf al-Wida (farewell).
- Hajj Ifrad Qurbani / Sacrifice: Not required unless voluntary.
- Hajj Ifrad Method: Simple, straightforward, and spiritually oriented towards Hajj alone.
2. Hajj Qiran
Meaning: Qiran means doing both Hajj and Umrah together in a single Ihram.
Hajj Qiran Niyat: “O Allah! I intend to perform Umrah and Hajj together.”
Hajj Qiran Steps
- Enter Ihram with intention for both Umrah and Hajj together.
- Perform Umrah: Tawaf + Sa’i.
- Do not exit Ihram, remain in it.
- Follow all Hajj rituals as in Hajj Ifrad: Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, Jamarat.
- Tawaf al-Ifadah and Tawaf al-Wida.
- Hajj Qiran Qurbani: Mandatory.
- Hajj Qiran Method: Longer time in Ihram, more rewarding due to double intention.
3. Hajj Tamattu
Meaning: Tamattu means “to enjoy,” referring to the break between Umrah and Hajj.
Best For: Pilgrims coming from abroad Saudi Arabia.
Hajj Tamattu Steps (Hajj Tamattu Step by Step)
- First Ihram: Enter only for Umrah.
- Do Umrah: Tawaf + Sa’i + haircut.
- Remove Ihram and ease off.
- On 8th Dhul Hijjah, put a new Ihram for Hajj.
- Go through all Hajj rituals: Mina, Arafat, Muzdalifah, Jamarat, Tawaf al-Ifadah.
- Tawaf al-Wida while leaving.
- Hajj Tamattu Qurbani: Compulsory.
- Hajj Tamattu Method: Provides a respite between Umrah and Hajj, thus “Tamattu.”
What is the Difference Between Hajj and Umrah?
One of the most common questions is: “What is the difference between Hajj and Umrah?”
Below, we’ve provided you the key differences b/w Hajj and Umrah.
| Feature | Hajj | Umrah |
| Timing | Only during Dhul Hijjah | Any time of the year |
| Duration | 5-6 days | Few hours |
| Obligatory (Fard)? | Once in a lifetime (if able) | Not obligatory |
| Key Rituals | Arafat, Mina, Rami, Qurbani | Tawaf, Sa’i, haircut only |
| Ihram Condition | Fixed dates | Flexible |
A Comparison between Types of Hajj
| Type of Hajj | Includes Umrah? | Requires Two Ihrams? | Qurbani Required? | Notes |
| Hajj Ifrad | No | No | No | Simple, only Hajj |
| Hajj Qiran | Yes | No | Yes | Both Hajj & Umrah in one Ihram |
| Hajj Tamattu | Yes | Yes | Yes | Break between Umrah & Hajj |
Why Knowing the Types of Hajj Matters?
Knowing the different types of Hajj – it’s not just book knowledge – it prepares you mentally, physically, and logistically. While you may opt for Hajj Ifrad, Hajj Qiran, or Hajj Tamattu, each is sacred and acceptable.
Your option depends on where you are from, how much time you can actually spend there, and your own ability. And don’t forget, to Allah, the heart is open. No option is “better” – all are a portal to His mercy.
Final Thoughts
So, to answer your big questions:
How many types of Hajj in Islam?
Three.
What are they?
Hajj Ifrad, Hajj Qiran, and Hajj Tamattu.
What’s the difference between Hajj and Umrah?
Hajj is obligatory with specific timings and rituals; Umrah is lighter and can be done anytime.
What’s the significance of Hajj?
It purifies your soul, unites the ummah, and revives the legacy of the Prophets.
Whatever your destination or route, may this journey one day be yours to take. And when you travel, may your heart resound with the expression of every pilgrim:
“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk.”