Does the consecrated state of pilgrimage (ihram) become valid without the two rak'ahs of ihram?

Question: Does the consecrated state of pilgrimage (ihram) of a Muslim for Hajj or 'Umrah become valid without performing the two rak'ahs of ihram, and is vocalizing the intention in ihram also a condition for its validity?
Answer: Performing the prayer before entering ihram is not a condition for ihram; rather, it is recommended (mustahabb) according to the majority. It is prescribed (mashru') for him to intend in his heart what he desires, whether Hajj or 'Umrah, and to vocalize it by saying: "O Allah, here I am for 'Umrah" or "O Allah, here I am for Hajj," or both if he intends to combine them (qiran), as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) did. Vocalizing it is not a condition; the intention is sufficient. Then he recites the prescribed talbiyah: "Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, there is no partner for You, here I am. Indeed, praise and blessing are Yours, and dominion. There is no partner for You." This is the talbiyah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) that is established from him in the two Sahihs and others.