I'TIKAAF

1. I'tikaaf means to seclude oneself in the Masjid for the Ibaadat of Almighty Allah.
2. The person who performs the I'tikaaf is called the "Mu'takif."
3. It is Sunnat-e-Mu'akkidah to observe I'tikaaf during the last 10 days of Ramadaan.
4. I'tikaaf begins from sunset of the 20th of Ramadaan & ends with the sighting of the Eid moon.
5. Women should observe I'tikaaf in their homes at the place where they normally read their Salaat.
6. Some of the many benefits that are to be gained by performing the I'tikaaf are:
7. A person in I'tikaaf keeps away from worldly affairs & many sinful deeds.
8. A person is able to devote all his or her time in Ibaadat & thereby, increase in Taqwa (piety).
9. The Muslim who performs the I'tikaaf must be sane, mature & in a state of Tahaarat (cleanliness).
10. I'tikaaf should be performed in a Masjid where the 5 daily Salaat is performed with Jamaat.
11. While in I'tikaaf, a person should occupy himself in Zikr, Nafil Salaat, recitation of the Holy Quran, learning & teaching Islamic knowledge.
12. The person must not indulge in worldly affairs or talks.
13. Leaving the Masjid without any valid reason will break the I'tikaaf.
14. One of the main purposes of the I'tikaaf is also to seek the Night of Qadr (Power).