I`tikaf

I`tikaf means to enter the Masjid with the intention of residing therein. Mu'takif - One who makes I`tikaf.

The basic purpose of I`tikaf is that the heart gets attached to Allah and, with it, one attains inner composure and serenity; and pre-occupation with the mundane things of life ceases, and focus on the eternal reality develops in its place. And such a state is reached in which all fears, hopes and apprehensions are superseded by love, devotion, and remembrance of Allah.

Rasulullah P.B.U.H. always observed I`tikaf and the Muslims have on a whole adhered to it. It has become a regular feature of the month of Ramadan and a confirmed practice with the devout and the faithful. Aishah relates that "Rasulullah P.B.U.H regularly observed I`tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadan till the end of his life. After him, his wives maintained the tradition".

al-Bukhari and Muslim

REWARD OF I`TIKAF

Ibn Abbas narrates that Rasulullah P.B.U.H said:
"Whoever walks to fulfil the needs of his brother, this is better for him than performing I`tikaf for ten years. And whoever performs I`tikaf for (just) one day, seeking Allah"s pleasure, Allah will place three trenches between him and the fire of Hell. Each trench is wider than the distance between the Two Wings (the expanse of the East and West)."

at-Tabarani, al-Bayhaqi