The month of Ramadan is a sacred period filled with divine mercy, spiritual elevation, and opportunities for the forgiveness of sins. Among its most blessed segments are the last ten days, which hold immense virtue and spiritual significance. It is during this time that Muslims are encouraged to engage in I’tikaf—a profound act of devotion that brings one closer to Allah through seclusion and worship.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) observed I’tikaf every year after migrating to Madinah. As narrated by Abdullah Ibn Umar (RA):

"The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to observe I’tikaf during the last ten nights of Ramadan." (Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 1171)

What is I’tikaf?

The word I’tikaf comes from the Arabic root ‘akafa, meaning to stay or remain. In Islamic terminology, I’tikaf refers to the act of isolating oneself in a mosque for a specific period with the intention of worship, detaching from worldly activities and dedicating oneself to seeking Allah’s pleasure.

Types of I’tikaf

Sunnah I’tikaf
This is the I’tikaf performed during the last ten days of Ramadan, beginning just before sunset on the 20th of Ramadan and continuing until the sighting of the Shawwal moon (Eid). It is considered Sunnah Mu’akkadah Kifayah—meaning if at least one person from a community performs it, the obligation is lifted for the others.
Wajib I’tikaf
This is a compulsory I’tikaf resulting from a vow (nazr). For example, if someone promises to perform I’tikaf upon the fulfillment of a specific desire or even without any condition, it becomes mandatory. Fasting is a requirement for this type of I’tikaf.
Nafl I’tikaf
This is a voluntary form of I’tikaf that can be observed at any time throughout the year. It can be brief, even for a short period, and ideally begins upon entering the mosque with the intention of I’tikaf.

Where Should I’tikaf Be Observed?

The most virtuous location for I’tikaf is:

Masjid al-Haram (in Makkah)
Masjid an-Nabawi (in Madinah)
Al-Aqsa Mosque (in Jerusalem)
Other mosques where Friday prayers (Jumu'ah) are held
Local mosques (for men)

For women, it is more appropriate to perform I’tikaf at home in a dedicated prayer space.

Recommended Acts During I’tikaf

Performing additional voluntary prayers (Nafl Salah)
Reciting the Qur’an
Engaging in Islamic discussions or listening to religious lectures
Making abundant remembrance (Dhikr) of Allah
Making personal supplications (Dua)
Reading Islamic books

Actions to Avoid During I’tikaf

Sitting idle without any form of worship
Engaging in arguments or idle chatter
Backbiting or slander
Conducting business or trading inside the mosque

What Invalidates I’tikaf

Leaving the mosque for non-essential reasons or staying out longer than necessary
Exiting the mosque without a Shariah-approved excuse
Engaging in marital relations
Leaving due to fear or illness unrelated to worship

Permissible Acts During I’tikaf

Eating and drinking within the mosque
Leaving briefly for natural needs (bathroom, etc.)
Exiting for obligatory (Fard) bathing
Going to a congregational mosque for Jumu’ah prayer in time to offer Sunnah before the sermon
Stepping out briefly to give the call to prayer (Adhan)

A Common Misunderstanding: Paying Someone to Perform I’tikaf

It is not permissible to pay someone to perform I’tikaf on behalf of a community. In some areas, if no one volunteers for I’tikaf during the last ten days, someone is hired and provided with food and money to perform it. This practice is invalid in Islam, as I’tikaf is a non-transferable act of worship and must be performed with sincere personal devotion—without any material compensation.

Conclusion

I’tikaf is a beautiful spiritual retreat that allows Muslims to disconnect from worldly distractions and reconnect with their Creator. Especially during the last ten nights of Ramadan—when the Night of Qadr (Laylatul Qadr) may be found—this act of worship offers unmatched opportunities for reflection, repentance, and renewal of faith. Let us embrace this Sunnah and strive to strengthen our bond with Allah in this sacred season.