What is the ruling on the two rak'ahs of ihram?

Question:
Honorable Shaykh, are the two rak'ahs of ihram obligatory or recommended?

Answer:
According to the correct opinion of the scholars, there is no specific prayer for ihram. There is no specific prayer for ihram. However, if the time for ihram coincides with the time for an obligatory prayer, one should perform the ihram after the obligatory prayer, following the action of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), for he entered the state of ihram after praying the midday prayer. So, if the time for his ihram coincides with the time for an obligatory prayer, it is better to delay it until after the obligatory prayer. But if it is at a time other than the time for an obligatory prayer, he does not have to pray; rather, he enters the state of ihram without prayer. If he does pray, there is no harm in that, as it is an additional good. And if he does not pray, there is no blame on him, and his ihram is valid.