I'tikaf (Spiritual Retreat in the Mosque)

Definition

I'tikaf (اعتكاف) is the practice of secluding oneself in a mosque for the purpose of devoted worship. It involves staying in the mosque continuously, dedicating one's time to prayer, Quran recitation, dhikr, and supplication, while minimizing worldly interactions.

Evidence and Ruling

The Quran mentions i'tikaf: 'And do not have relations with them as long as you are in i'tikaf in the mosques' (Quran 2:187). The Prophet Muhammad performed i'tikaf every Ramadan during the last ten days, and in his final year he performed it for twenty days (Sahih al-Bukhari 2044). I'tikaf is a confirmed sunnah (sunnah mu'akkadah) during the last ten days of Ramadan and is permissible at any time of the year.

Conditions

The person must be Muslim, sane, and in a state of ritual purity. The i'tikaf must be performed in a mosque (the Hanafi, Shafi'i, and Hanbali schools require a mosque where congregational prayers are held). The person remains in the mosque and only leaves for necessary human needs (using the restroom, eating if food is not brought to them). Sexual intercourse invalidates the i'tikaf.

Benefits

I'tikaf provides an opportunity to disconnect from worldly distractions and focus entirely on one's relationship with Allah. It is particularly significant during the last ten nights of Ramadan, when Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power) occurs. The Prophet was more diligent in worship during these ten nights than at any other time (Sahih Muslim 1174).