An Appaisal of the Practice of I’tikaf in Selected Mosques in Ilorin Metropolis

Abstract

Abstract

I^ctikāf is one of the common spiritual practices in Islam. It is a spiritual retreat, usually done in a central Mosque where jum’ah is being performed during the last ten days of Ramadan with the intention of moving closer to Allah. The research aims to examine the concept of I^ctikāf as mentioned in the Glorious Qu’ran and Sunnah as well as the perceived abuse of the sacred exercise among contemporary Muslims in Ilorin. Analytical and descriptive research methods were adopted in this study. Analytical method was utilized to analyze the prophetic I^ctikāf while observation method was used to gather information about the practices, motives and behavior of people in selected Itikaf centres in Ilorin Metropolis. Interview was conducted with volunteers who are actively involved in practice and planning for Itikaf in Ilorin. it was found that despite the awareness of some Muslims on the prophetic I^ctikāf, they still involved abusing and violating the rules and regulations of I^ctikāf. This study therefore, suggested that before someone could engage in the practice of I^ctikāf, he must know the etiquettes, conditions, rules, and regulations governing its practice, and uphold a decent and upright behaviors throughout the period.