Q: We work at a shop that sells clothes. On the last ten days of Ramadan (Part No. 9; Page No. 321) we cannot observe I`tikaf (seclusion for worship in a Masjid) during the day because of work conditions. Is it valid to observe I`tikaf only at night and work during the day at the shop?

A: It is permissible to observe I`tikaf even for an hour at a Masjid (mosque) where congregational Salah (Prayer) is offered. It is valid to observe I`tikaf without observing Sawm (Fast) during the time of I`tikaf according to the most correct opinion maintained by scholars. `Abdullah ibn `Umar (may Allah be pleased with him and his father) narrated on the authority of `Umar ibn Al-Khattab that the latter said, "O Allah's Messenger, I vowed in Jahiliyyah (pre-Islamic era of ignorance) to observe I`tikaf for a night at Al-Masjid Al-Haram (the Sacred Mosque in Makkah)." Consequently, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said to him: 'Fulfill your vow.' Therefore, he performed I`tikaf for one night. (Related by Al-Bukhari and Muslim) This is the wording of Al-Bukhari, vol. 2, p. 260. Had Sawm been a condition for the validity of I`tikaf, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would not have approved the I`tikaf of just one night without its day. Hence, it is permissible for you to have the intention of observing I`tikaf only at a night without observing it on the day because of the reason you mentioned. In sha’a-Allah (if Allah wills), you will be rewarded according to your deed.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.