What are the three types of Hajj (Tamattu', Qiran, and Ifrad), and which is best?

Ifrad is to enter ihram for Hajj alone; Qiran is to enter ihram for Umrah and Hajj together while bringing a sacrificial animal (hady); and Tamattu' is to perform Umrah in the months of Hajj, exit ihram, then enter ihram again for Hajj in the same year, offering a hady. Allah explicitly mentions Tamattu' and its hady in the Qur'an, and Aisha reported that the Companions in the Farewell Pilgrimage entered ihram in these differing ways. The majority of scholars, and this was the preference the Prophet urged upon those who had not brought a hady, hold that Tamattu' is best for such a person, since he commanded his Companions to convert their intention to Umrah and enjoy the release from ihram. One who performs Tamattu' or Qiran must offer a hady, or fast three days during Hajj and seven upon returning if unable.

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