Is it recommended for the person in i'tikaf to engage in teaching or studying religious sciences?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of I'tikaf
Primary text
The majority of our companions hold that engaging in teaching religious knowledge, studying, or debating jurists is not recommended. This aligns with the apparent view of Ahmad. The rationale is that the Prophet (PBUH) observed i'tikaf without this being reported, and i'tikaf is an act of worship conditioned by the mosque, thus excluding activities like circumambulation (Tawaf) where such matters are not recommended.
Supporting text
Abu Al-Khattab and Al-Shafi'i selected the view that it is recommended if the intention is solely to obey Allah and not for boasting, as these acts are among the best forms of worship whose benefit extends to others, making them superior to leaving the i'tikaf for mere private devotion.