Itikaf in Prisons
In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.
Answer
There are three conditions for the Itikaf to be considered valid. They are:
- The Itikaf is done is such a Masjid where the five daily prayers with congregation takes place.
- Intention is made to stay in the Masjid.
- To be free from major impurities such as from janabah, menstruation blood and nifaas (post natal bleeding). (Ilmul Fiqh p.46 v.3)
If the prisoner is allowed to stay in the prisons prayer room where most of the prayers are held in congregation then to do Itikaf there will be permissible and Inshallah one will be rewarded for his action by Allah (SWA). (Fatawa Rahimiyah p.209 v.5)
Mufti Rashid Ahmad Ludhyanwi (RA) has written that the Salah being performed in congregation is not a condition in that particular masjid or mussalah where the Itikaf is being performed. (Ahsanul Fatawa p.507 v.4)
However, it would not be considered permissible for the prisoner to do Itikaf in his cell, as the cell is not a permanent designated place or a temporary designated place for worship.
Only Allah Knows Best
Mohammed Tosir Miah
Darul Ifta Birmingham.
