Does leaving for an obligatory matter invalidate the i'tikaf?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of I'tikaf
Primary text
If one leaves for an obligatory matter, such as the Jumu'ah prayer when required, the i'tikaf is not invalidated, provided the departure is not prolonged. This is supported by the analogy of a waiting woman ('iddah) leaving for her waiting period, or leaving to rescue someone drowning, extinguish a fire, or fulfill a specific mandatory testimony. Since the exit is for a necessary matter, the i'tikaf remains valid.
Supporting text
Al-Shafi'i maintains that if one vows continuous i'tikaf and leaves for Jumu'ah, the i'tikaf is nullified, analogous to one who starts the two consecutive months of fasting for expiation and breaks the sequence.