Is it permissible to stipulate sexual intercourse, commerce, or professional work inside the mosque during i'tikaf?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of I'tikaf

Book 10 · Issue 15 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

It is not permissible to stipulate sexual intercourse, fondling, commercial transactions, or earning a living through craft within the mosque during i'tikaf. Stipulating these conditions involves stipulating disobedience to God, as indicated by Quran 2:187, which prohibits intimacy while in i'tikaf. Craftsmanship is also prohibited outside of i'tikaf, making it more prohibited within it. If such necessities arise, abandoning the i'tikaf is preferable to committing a prohibited act.

Supporting text

Ahmad stated that he dislikes a craftsman working while in i'tikaf, and if he truly needs to work for sustenance, he should not undertake i'tikaf.