The conditions of i'tikaf and the ruling on the i'tikafing person leaving

Question:
This questioner, whose name is indicated by the initials (H. M. 'A), from the Arab Republic of Egypt, and residing in al-Muzahimiyah, sent a set of questions. He begins this message with his first question, and says:
What are the conditions of i'tikaf in Ramadan? And is it permissible for a person to leave the mosque during this period for any of the reasons?

Answer:
It is a recommended practice (sunnah) to perform i'tikaf in the mosque in Ramadan, if that is facilitated, in Ramadan and other times, but in Ramadan it is better if that is facilitated. He may leave if a need arises for him; he leaves to perform wudu', he leaves to relieve himself, there is no harm. And he may ease up if he intended to perform i'tikaf for five days, then left one or two days of it, and settled for two or three days, there is no harm; because it is a recommended practice (sunnah), not obligatory, except if he made a vow. He said: "I have a vow upon me to Allah that I will perform i'tikaf such and such," then he must fulfill the vow; due to the saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): .
As for if it is not a vow, it is recommended (mustahabb). He may enter and perform i'tikaf, and he may break off the i'tikaf if something unexpected occurs. It is better for him to break off the i'tikaf, there is no blame. And he may leave for his need, for wudu', for ghusl, for relieving himself, there is no harm. Yes.

The presenter: May Allah reward you.