Naveed Ahmad Khan
Islamabad: On the twentieth day of Ramadan, millions of Muslims around the world, including those in Pakistan, will have the honor of performing Itikaf.
For Muslims who wish to practice “Itikaf” (meditative seclusion) starting today during the final 10 days of the holy month of Ramadan, several Masajid around Muslim nations, including Faisal Masjid, have prepared significant accommodations.
Itikaf is a period starting from the 20th of Ramadan when dedicated faithful seclude in the masjid for ten days in search of Lailatul Qadr (Night of Majesty) and for seeking the forgiveness of Almighty Allah by abandoning their routine business.
During this period these worshipers would not go out of the masjid for worldly purposes, except for essential needs. They devote their whole time to reading the Holy Quran, and Zikar besides engaging in prayers seeking forgiveness and blessings of Allah.
Itikaf is a Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) and carries a multitude of blessings of Allah Almighty.
A large number of women have joined the Faisal Masjid set up in Islamabad. Separate arrangements have been made for them.
The people sitting in Itikaf will complete Itikaf as soon as the Eid moon is visible.
