Itikaf begins across J&K as faithful enter spiritual seclusion in masjids

Srinagar, Mar 10: Like other parts of the country, the deeply revered Islamic practice of Itikaf commenced across Jammu and Kashmir on Monday evening, marking the beginning of a spiritually significant phase for devout Muslims during the concluding days of the holy month of Ramadhan.

The practice, observed during the last ten days of Ramadhan, sees worshippers seclude themselves in Masjids to dedicate their time entirely to prayer, reflection and spiritual devotion.

Itikaf is regarded as one of the most spiritually rewarding acts in Islam. During this period, participants detach themselves from worldly affairs and remain within the premises of a Masjid, spending their days and nights in acts of worship such as recitation of the Holy Quran, remembrance of Allah (dhikr) and offering voluntary prayers.

The central aim of the practice is to draw closer to Allah and seek divine mercy and blessings, while ensuring one’s presence during Laylat al-Qadr, widely regarded as the holiest night in Islam.

Derived from the Arabic root word “akafa,” meaning “to adhere” or “to remain devoted,” Itikaf symbolises a strong commitment to spiritual discipline and devotion. The practice holds deep significance in Islamic tradition as it was regularly observed by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) during the last ten days of Ramadhan, making it an important Sunnah for Muslims across the world.

Across the Kashmir Valley, Masjids have witnessed a large number of worshippers beginning their spiritual retreat. Special arrangements have been made by Masjid committees and local communities to accommodate those observing Itikaf, ensuring that participants can devote themselves fully to worship.

Many Masjids have been illuminated and decorated with lights and banners bearing verses from the Holy Quran, creating a serene and spiritually uplifting atmosphere for the worshippers.

In Srinagar and several other districts of the Union Territory, hundreds of devotees have begun their seclusion in prominent Masjids and religious institutions. Among the centres hosting large numbers of participants are Darul Uloom Raheemiya in Bandipora and Masjid Murshideen in Kupwara, where elaborate arrangements have been made for those observing the spiritual retreat.

These institutions have arranged sleeping spaces, meals for fasting participants and dedicated areas for prayers and Quranic study to facilitate uninterrupted worship during the period.

Religious scholars have emphasised that Itikaf is not merely an act of ritual devotion but also an opportunity for spiritual purification and self-reflection. They encourage participants to utilise the sacred period for seeking forgiveness, reflecting upon their actions and praying for peace, prosperity and the well-being of humanity.

Itikaf is a voluntary yet highly rewarding practice that encourages believers to disconnect from worldly distractions and focus entirely on their relationship with Allah. Traditionally, it begins at sunset on the twentieth day of Ramadhan and continues until the sighting of the moon that marks the beginning of Eid.

Islamic scholars explain that Itikaf can be observed in different forms. The most commonly practised form is the Sunnah Itikaf during the last ten days of Ramadhan. Another type is Wajib Itikaf, which becomes obligatory if a person makes a vow to observe it, while Nafl Itikaf can be performed voluntarily at any time of the year.

Those observing Itikaf are expected to remain within the Masjid except for essential needs. Activities such as business dealings, unnecessary social interaction and other worldly engagements are discouraged during this period. Instead, worshippers devote themselves to prayer, Quranic recitation and supplication, seeking spiritual renewal and divine blessings.

As the final days of Ramadhan unfold, the observance of Itikaf across Jammu and Kashmir reflects the region’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions, with believers striving to strengthen their faith and draw closer to Allah during this sacred period.