Itikaaf Guidelines
Itikaf FAQs
What is 'Itikaf?Performing Itikaf in the last 10 nights of Ramadan is a highly revered act of worship in Islam. Itikaf is a form of worship where a person stays in seclusion in a mosque for a certain period of time, focusing solely on worship and remembrance of Allah.
What can I bring?Must-Have: Unscented personal hygiene products (toothbrush, toothpaste), medications, a sleeping bag. Bring spare clothes including undergarments. Bring carrier bags to separate your clean clothes from your dirty clothes.
Should Have: Comfortable clothing for prayer, notebook and pen for religious study and capturing reflections. Loose change can also be useful to have in case you would like a particular snack but are unable to leave the premises during Itikaf.
Could Have: A small pillow or cushion, lightweight blanket, your own Quran, a personal journal.
Won’t Have: Electronic devices that disturb the peace, non-essential bulky items, scented products that might distract others. Smelly food and food that expires quickly should be avoided.
Please limit your luggage to a size not exceeding 21 inches in length, 15 inches in width, and 9 inches in height (approximately 53 cm x 38 cm x 23 cm). This practice assists in maintaining orderliness and cleanliness within our sacred space.
Are there shower facilities?Yes. In fact, you should maintain personal hygiene and cleanliness by taking regular showers and brushing your teeth. Ensure you are wearing clean clothes.
How should I conduct myself?- Intention:The first and most important step in Itikaf is to have a sincere intention to seek the pleasure of Allah alone. The intention should be made before entering the mosque and should be for the sole purpose of worshiping Allah.
Adherence to rules (see below): The mosque has specific rules that must be adhered to during Itikaf. These include maintaining cleanliness, not engaging in any worldly activities such as talking unnecessarily, reading non-Islamic material, and engaging in gossip. Additionally, you should follow the instructions given by the mosque administration.
Spiritual routine: You should establish a routine that includes recitation of the Quran, performing the obligatory and voluntary prayers, making dua, and engaging in other forms of worship such as Dhikr, and reading Islamic books. It is recommended to spend more time in congregational prayers, especially the Taraweeh prayers.
Maintaining silence: It is important to observe silence in the mosque, especially during the night, to avoid disturbing others who may be engaged in worship. If you must speak, do so in a low tone and avoid any unnecessary conversation.
Personal hygiene: You should maintain personal hygiene and cleanliness by taking regular showers and brushing your teeth. Ensure you are wearing clean clothes.
Food and drink: The mosque may provide meals and drinks during Itikaf, but it is also advisable to bring your own food and drink. Ensure to keep the mosque clean and dispose of any food waste appropriately.
Focus on spirituality: The primary goal of Itikaf is to increase your connection with Allah and to attain spiritual purification. Therefore, you should avoid any distractions that may hinder your focus on worship and remembrance of Allah.
Seek knowledge: Utilize this opportunity to increase your knowledge of Islam. Engage in activities such as attending Islamic lectures and seeking knowledge from the scholars in the mosque.
Interact positively: Be courteous and respectful to other Itikaf participants and the mosque staff. Interact positively with others and avoid any negative behavior.
Seek forgiveness and repentance: Use this opportunity to seek forgiveness and repentance from Allah for your sins. It is a time to turn to Allah with humility and sincerity.
On most occasions, provided that there is enough food, our masjid caters a daily iftar and you are most welcome to request iftar. You will have to place your waste in a bin bag and are responsible for keeping the area clean and presentable.
If you choose to bring your own food e.g. for suhoor then please be aware that all food has to be either stored in the fridge or placed in the boxes provided. Food left out on the table or anywhere in the front hall and sisters hall will not be tolerated.
Itikaf Rules Conduct Procedure Standards Protocol
To ensure a harmonious and meaningful ‘Itikaf experience for all, we kindly ask for your cooperation with the following guidelines:
Luggage Restrictions: Please limit your luggage to a size not exceeding 21 inches in length, 15 inches in width, and 9 inches in height (approximately 53 cm x 38 cm x 23 cm). This practice assists in maintaining orderliness and cleanliness within our sacred space.
Sleeping Arrangements: Participants staying at the masjid are requested to bring their own sleeping bags. Exceptions to this guideline may be granted under special circumstances, subject to prior approval from the masjid administration.
Cleanliness and Tidiness: Let us uphold the value of cleanliness and tidiness, particularly during suhoor and iftar. Kindly clean up after yourselves and extend the same courtesy to communal spaces by proactively addressing any messes you may encounter.
Food Storage: Food has to be either stored in the fridge or placed in the boxes provided. Food left out on the table or anywhere in the front hall and sisters hall will not be tolerated.
- Tissue Arrangements: Toilet tissue will NOT be available for public use in the masjid. However, tissue will be reserved and stored securely in the office ONLY for the mutakifeen. We request that tissues are to be used moderately and not left in the toilets.
Etiquette in the House of Allah: As guests in the House of Allah, let us conduct ourselves with the utmost respect and reverence. Maintain decorum, avoid distractions, and engage in acts of worship and contemplation with sincerity and humility.
Devotion and Reflection: Utilize the precious moments of ‘Itikaf to intensify your worship, delve into the teachings of the Quran, engage in dhikr, and seek forgiveness for past shortcomings. Let us strive to make the most of this sacred time for spiritual growth and renewal.
Seeking Knowledge: Take advantage of any educational opportunities or spiritual gatherings organized during ‘Itikaf to deepen your understanding of Islam and enrich your spiritual journey.
Community Spirit: Embrace the spirit of brotherhood and camaraderie within the ‘Itikaf community. Extend support and encouragement to your fellow brothers, and foster an environment of unity and cooperation.
Respect for the Masjid: Show reverence and care for the masjid, refraining from any actions that may disrupt its sanctity or cause harm. Keep noise levels to a minimum, especially during late hours, to ensure a tranquil atmosphere conducive to worship and reflection.
By adhering to these guidelines, we can collectively enhance the spiritual atmosphere of ‘Itikaf and maximize the blessings of Ramadan. May Allah accept our efforts and grant us His mercy and guidance throughout this sacred period.
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