Safiya went to the Prophet (ﷺ) while he was in I`tikaf. When she returned, the Prophet (ﷺ) accompanied her walking. An Ansari man saw him. When the Prophet (ﷺ) noticed him, he called him and said, "Come here. She is Safiya. (Sufyan a sub-narrator perhaps said that the Prophet (ﷺ) had said, "This is Safiya"). And Satan circulates in the body of Adam's offspring as his blood circulates in it." (A sub-narrator asked Sufyan, "Did Safiya visit him at night?" He said, "Of course, at night.")
The Virtue of I'tikaf and Spiritual Vigilance
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 2039 demonstrates the Prophet's exemplary conduct during I'tikaf. Though engaged in seclusion for worship, he maintained proper relations with his family, showing that I'tikaf doesn't necessitate complete isolation from worldly matters that don't distract from devotion.
The Nature of Satan's Influence
The Prophet's profound statement comparing Satan's circulation in human beings to blood circulation reveals the constant nature of spiritual struggle. This emphasizes the need for continuous vigilance and reliance on Allah during worship and daily life.
The Prophet's transparency in calling the Ansari man and openly identifying Safiya demonstrates the Islamic principle of removing suspicion and maintaining pure intentions in all interactions.
Practical Guidance for Those in I'tikaf
This incident provides guidance that brief interactions with family members during I'tikaf are permissible, provided they don't lead to violations of I'tikaf conditions or distract from the primary purpose of devotion.
The timing (at night) mentioned by the sub-narrator indicates the flexibility in receiving visitors during I'tikaf, though the core focus must remain on worship and remembrance of Allah.