Is it permissible for the person in i'tikaf to hasten their pace when leaving for necessary reasons?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of I'tikaf
Primary text
When leaving for an unavoidable need, the person in i'tikaf is not required to rush their walking; they may proceed at their normal pace because imposing haste involves hardship. They are also not permitted to stay outside after fulfilling the need, whether for eating or otherwise.
Supporting text
Some suggest that eating a very small amount in one's home is permissible, but not the entirety of one's meal. Another view suggests that eating at home might be permissible as eating inside the mosque can be considered lowly or embarrassing if others are present.