How should one perform I'tikaf in the mosque during the last ten days of Ramadan if their work ends at 2:00 PM, and is permanent residency in the mosque obligatory?
A person performing I'tikaf (spiritual retreat in a mosque) leaving the mosque invalidates their I'tikaf, unless it is for an essential need that cannot be fulfilled inside the mosque, such as relieving oneself, performing ablution (Wudu'), taking a ritual bath (Ghusl), or bringing food if there is no one to bring it for them. It was narrated from 'Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) "would not enter the house except for a human need when he was in I'tikaf." Ibn Qudamah is of the view that essential needs do not invalidate I'tikaf as long as the exit is not prolonged. It is not permissible for a person in I'tikaf to leave to visit a sick person, answer an invitation, fulfill the needs of his family, follow a funeral procession, or go to his work. This is based on the statement of 'Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her): "It is the Sunnah for the one performing I'tikaf not to visit a sick person, nor attend a funeral, nor touch a woman or engage in conjugal relations with her, nor leave for any need except for what is absolutely necessary."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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