Frequently Asked Questions on Itikaf
1. There is a close relationship to Itikaf and the ihram for Hajj. As was seen, there are certain things forbidden while in the ihram of Hajj which are also forbidden for the one in the state of Itikaf. This point should be kept in mind especially in the spiritual aspect of this great act of worship.
2. The intention for this act should be pronounced verbally just so one is focused on this act and whom he is doing it for. Some scholars have even stated that the intention should be renewed every day.
3. Although it is discouraged to sleep in a Masjid according to the verdict of the scholars, there are ‘exceptions to this rule’ – one being in the state of Itikaf as this itself is an act of worship which has been legislated by Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) to be performed only in a Masjid. To sleep at other times is discouraged.
4. A person can change his clothes during the period of Itikaf if the need arises (they become dirty, najis, etc…) and there is no problem in this, however to take a bath, especially with soap which may be perfumed (done with the intention of clinging to the transient world) must be avoided – except in the case of necessity where one must take a bath.
5. People can come and visit the Masjid during the period of Itikaf and there is even no problem if friends or family come to bring the person in Itikaf food, drink (to break his fast with) or things which they may need and are a dire necessity during this three day period.
6. Food is usually prepared by the community members or the leaders of the Masjid for those in the state of Itikaf as the people in Itikaf are not permitted to leave the Masjid (except for the conditions previously stated). The person who plans to enter this spiritual retreat can also bring things with him when he begins his three day sojourn if he so desires.
7. In regards to the breaking of the fast and eating before the fast starts, one can not leave the Masjid to procure this. Therefore, he should have either brought things with him or the Masjid organizers should be so kind so as to provide this to those in the state of worship for this three day period. If there is a kitchen in the Masjid, those in the worship of Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) may use it to make their own food.
8. The three day period should be spent in contemplation of the faith of Islam, recitation of the Noble Qur’an and supplications and anything else which can draw a person closer to Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him).
If a person has missed prayers, he should try and make them up in this special period. If he has a clean slate of prayers, then he should try and recite the recommended prayers. Other than this, all other spiritual acts of nearness to Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) should be maintained. However at the same time, one should not do things which keep him busy with the transient world that he has turned away from for these three days – meaning that reading things which would keep his mind busy with work, school, etc… should be refrained from. In addition, all other things which are commonly used to “kill time” should be completely left for this short three day period.
Source: coiradio.com
Other links:
Itikaf, the Spring of Life
Conditions of Itikaf (Part 1)
What is the manner of washing face, wiping head and feet in wudhu?
Prayers: What Is The Philosophy Behind Wudhu And Ghusl?
What Is The Philosophy Behind (The Payment) Of Zakaat?
