In order to secure the abundant reward and virtue of Laylatul Qadr, Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallm would engage in I’tikāf in Masjidun Nabawi during the last ten days of Ramadan. If he did not do so for some reason, he would at times make up for it after Ramadan.

 

A’ishah radhiyallahu ‘anha reports that Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallm used to perform I’tikāf in the last ten days of Ramadan until he left this world. (Bukhari & Muslim)

 

Due to the current lockdown restrictions, Sunnah I’tikāf as we know it may not be possible.

 

Individuals who envisaged practicing this great Sunnah should endeavour to emulate I’tikāf at home to the best of their ability. A suitable area within the home, preferably where congregational Salāh can be performed, should be demarcated for this purpose and the time spent fruitfully towards achieving the objectives of I’tikāf.

 

Upon the lifting of restrictions, regular observers of I’tikāf may choose to perform ten days of I’tikāf in the Masjid.

 

Females are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to perform Sunnah I’tikāf in their homes.

 

We hope in the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala that He bestows the same reward and benefit of Sunnah Mu-akkadah I’tikāf in the Masjid.

 

May Allah Ta’ala accept the ‘Ibādāt of the Ummah, make this month spiritually uplifting and alleviate our current condition.