What is a Sunnat and a Nafl I'tikaaf?

Answer

Sunnah I'tikaaf is the I'tikaaf of the last ten days of Ramadhaan. Nafl I'tikaaf could be observed throughout the year and there is no specific time for it. It could be for even one minute. Whenever entering a Musjid, make intention of Nafl I'tikaaf, and engage in thikr, tilaawat, Salaat, etc. As long as you are in the Musjid you will then be receiving the thawaab of Nafl I'tikaaf. The moment you leave the Musjid, the Nafl I'tikaaf terminates. Furthermore, whereas Fasting is compulsory for the Sunnat I'tikaaf, there is no fasting for a Nafl I'tikaaf, although it is permissible to fast even if one observes Nafl I'tikaaf.