Introduction to Itikaf in Hanafi Fiqh
Itikaf is a highly meritorious act of worship that involves seclusion in the masjid with the intention of dedicating oneself to the remembrance of Allah, worship, and reflection. The Hanafi school of thought provides clear rulings regarding the different types, conditions, and regulations of Itikaf, ensuring that it is performed correctly and in accordance with Islamic law.
Allah says in the Quran:
“And do not have relations with them as long as you are staying for worship in the mosques.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:187)“
This verse highlights that Itikaf requires full devotion and abstention from worldly distractions, particularly within the sacred space of the masjid.
1. Types of Itikaf in Hanafi Fiqh
According to the Hanafi school, Itikaf is classified into three types:
1.1 Obligatory (Wajib) Itikaf
- This type of Itikaf becomes obligatory when a person makes a vow (nazar) to perform Itikaf upon the fulfillment of a condition.
- Example: If someone says, “If Allah grants me success, I will perform three days of Itikaf,” then it becomes binding.
- Duration: The number of days specified in the vow must be observed.
- Fasting is a condition for this type of Itikaf.
1.2 Sunnah Mu’akkadah (Emphasized Itikaf)
- This is the most emphasized Itikaf, observed during the last ten days of Ramadan.
- The Prophet (ﷺ) consistently performed Itikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan, making it Sunnah Mu’akkadah ‘alal Kifayah (a collective obligation).
- If at least one person in a community performs it, the obligation is lifted from the rest.
1.3 Nafl (Voluntary) Itikaf
- This type of Itikaf can be performed at any time of the year, even for a short duration (e.g., a few hours in the masjid).
- No fasting is required for Nafl Itikaf.
- Even entering the masjid with the intention of Nafl Itikaf grants reward.
2. Conditions for a Valid Itikaf
For an Itikaf to be valid in Hanafi Fiqh, the following conditions must be met:
2.1 General Conditions
- Intention (Niyyah): A clear intention must be made at the beginning.
- Being in a Masjid: It must be performed in a masjid where congregational prayers are established.
- Fasting (For Sunnah & Wajib Itikaf): Fasting is a condition for Itikaf in Ramadan.
- Menstrual Purity (For Women): Women must be free from menstruation and postnatal bleeding.
- Consent (For Women): A married woman requires her husband’s permission.
2.2 Special Rulings for Women
- Women should observe Itikaf in a designated prayer space within their homes.
- They must seek permission from their husbands if married.
- If menstruation begins during Itikaf, it must be stopped immediately.
3. Permissible Acts During Itikaf
During Itikaf, the following acts are allowed:
- Eating and sleeping inside the masjid.
- Engaging in Salah, Qur’an recitation, Dhikr, and Du’a.
- Speaking about beneficial Islamic matters.
- Performing essential activities, provided they do not distract from devotion.
4. What Nullifies Itikaf?
Itikaf is invalidated if any of the following occur:
- Leaving the Masjid Without Necessity: A person observing Sunnah or Wajib Itikaf cannot leave unless for an essential reason.
- Engaging in Sexual Relations: Allah explicitly prohibits intimacy during Itikaf (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:187).
- Menstruation or Postnatal Bleeding: Women must discontinue Itikaf if this occurs.
- Loss of Consciousness or Insanity: If a person becomes unconscious or insane, the Itikaf is nullified.
5. Leaving the Masjid for Valid Reasons
A person may temporarily leave the masjid during Itikaf for the following valid reasons:
- Using the toilet.
- Performing Wudu or Ghusl (if required).
- Attending Jumu’ah Salah (if the masjid does not hold it).
- Fetching food if no one else can provide it.
