Can One Perform Iʿtikāf for Just One Night?

Source: Urdu Sharh of ‘Umdat al-Ahkam min Kalam Khayr al-Anam
Translation by: Hafiz Faizullah Nasir

The Third Hadith:​

Narrated by Sayyiduna ʿUmar ibn al-Khattab رضي الله عنه:

"I said, O Messenger of Allah ﷺ! I had made a vow during the days of ignorance (Jāhiliyyah) that I would observe Iʿtikāf for one night."
_And in another narration: _
"(I vowed to observe Iʿtikāf) for one day in Masjid al-Haram."
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Fulfill your vow.”
Some narrators did not mention whether it was a day or a night.

Explanation of Key Terms:​

• الجَاهِلِيَّة: The era before accepting Islam (Pre-Islamic period).
• الرُّوَاةُ: Plural of Rāwī (narrator).
  

Commentary on the Hadith:​

❖ This Hadith serves as evidence of the validity of a vow made by a disbeliever, meaning that if such a person later embraces Islam, they are still required to fulfill a vow they made while in disbelief.

❖ However, it is important to note that fulfilling a vow that contradicts Islamic teachings is not permissible.

References:​

① Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, Book of Oaths and Vows,
Chapter: When one vows or swears not to speak to someone during the Days of Ignorance,
Hadith no.: 2043

② Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, Book of Faith,
Chapter: The Vow of a Disbeliever and What He Should Do if He Becomes Muslim,
Hadith no.: 1656

Conclusion:​

Yes, observing Iʿtikāf for only one night or one day is valid, especially when it is in fulfillment of a vow. This is proven through the action of Sayyiduna ʿUmar رضي الله عنه and affirmed by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.