"The Messenger of Allah would Yujawir (stay in I'tikaf) during the last ten (nights) of Ramadan and he said: 'Seek the Night of Al-Qadr during the last ten (nights) of Ramadan.'"
Hadith Commentary: The Excellence of I'tikaf in Ramadan's Last Ten Nights
This narration from Jami' at-Tirmidhi (Hadith 792) establishes two significant acts of worship: I'tikaf (spiritual retreat) and seeking Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree). The Prophet's consistent practice demonstrates the emphasized Sunnah of secluding oneself in the mosque during these blessed nights.
The Meaning of Yujawir
The term "Yujawir" derives from "Jiwār" meaning proximity and neighborliness. In this context, it signifies the Prophet's practice of residing in the mosque, devoting himself entirely to worship, and becoming a "neighbor" to the House of Allah through I'tikaf.
Scholars explain this indicates the completeness of his devotion during these nights, abandoning worldly engagements to focus solely on obedience, remembrance of Allah, and recitation of the Qur'an.
The Wisdom Behind the Last Ten Nights
The specification of the last ten nights contains profound wisdom. These nights represent the culmination of Ramadan's blessings, and Laylat al-Qadr is concealed within them to encourage increased worship throughout this period.
As Imam al-Nawawi stated: "The Prophet specified these nights because Laylat al-Qadr occurs within them, and worship during this night is superior to worship over a thousand months." This divine concealment motivates believers to intensify their efforts.
Seeking Laylat al-Qadr: Practical Guidance
The command to "seek" Laylat al-Qadr indicates both physical and spiritual striving. The scholars recommend: increasing night prayers (Qiyam), abundant supplication (particularly the famous: "Allāhumma innaka 'afuwwun tuḥibbul-'afwa fa'fu 'annī"), recitation of Qur'an, and giving charity.
Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali noted: "The seeker should combine various acts of worship - prayer, remembrance, supplication, and seeking forgiveness - for this comprehensive approach is most beloved to Allah and most likely to attain His mercy and forgiveness."
Legal Rulings Derived
From this hadith, scholars derive that I'tikaf during the last ten nights of Ramadan is a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah Mu'akkadah). While I'tikaf can be performed at any time, these particular nights hold special merit.
The majority of jurists hold that the minimum duration for a valid I'tikaf is whatever one intends to call "staying" in the mosque, though the complete practice involves remaining throughout the specified period except for necessary human needs.