Is it permissible to stipulate conditions such as visiting family or working during the i'tikaf?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of I'tikaf
Primary text
It is permissible to stipulate conditions for matters that are meritorious acts, such as visiting family, visiting a righteous person or scholar, attending a funeral, or stipulating necessary mundane activities like eating at home or sleeping there. Ahmad affirmed the permissibility of stipulating eating with one's family if the i'tikaf is voluntary.
Supporting text
Malik forbade stipulating any condition in i'tikaf, viewing the vow as binding in its form without modification. However, stipulating that one may leave if illness or an obstacle arises is permissible.