If the one observing I`tikaf leaves the Masjid for a certain reason

Q: If the one observing I`tikaf (seclusion for worship in a Masjid) leaves the Masjid (mosque) for a certain reason, such as going home to wake his family up for Suhur (pre-dawn meal before the Fast) because there is no one at home to do so, does this violate the conditions of I`tikaf ?


A: Whoever enters I`tikaf should not go out unless there is a need to conduct his necessary requirements such as fetching food and drink if there is no one to do so, or to relieve oneself if there is no toilet annexed to the Masjid. He may leave the Masjid during the time of Suhur to wake up his family to prepare Suhur meal and to be ready for Fajr (Dawn) Prayer if they cannot wake up on their own or if there is no one else to do so, because this act is one of the aspects of cooperation in doing good deeds and enjoining Ma`ruf (that which is judged as good, beneficial, or fitting by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect). Whatever is needed to perform a Wajib (obligatory) matter becomes itself a Wajib. However, such a person should not sit at home after waking his family up. He should return to his place of I`tikaf at the Masjid.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.


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