Is remaining silent (Samat) permissible or recommended during i'tikaf?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of I'tikaf
Primary text
Silence (Samat) as a religious practice is not part of the Islamic legislation, and narrations indicate its prohibition. If someone vows such silence during i'tikaf or otherwise, the vow is not binding. This is the position of Al-Shafi'i, the Ashab al-Ra'y, and Ibn Al-Mundhir.
Supporting text
It is not permissible to use the Qur'an as a replacement for speech, similar to using the Mushaf as a cushion. If one intends to remain silent, they are commanded to speak, sit, seek shade, and complete their fast, indicating that silence vowed is a vow involving a prohibited act.