Seclusion is not limited only to the prayer area, otherwise going to the bathroom would contradict the act of seclusion.

The place for seclusion is the mosque, as indicated by the verse: “And do not have relations with them [your wives] as long as you are staying for worship in the mosques.” [Al-Baqarah 2:187]. The term “mosque” here encompasses both the prayer area and its specific associated areas (when we say “specific,” it is to exclude what is attached to the building but serves a purpose other than the mosque, such as some schools, educational institutions, and charitable organizations; these do not fall under the mosque’s borders). Some scholars have even argued that the borders extend to what is inside the walls if the mosque is enclosed with walls, including parking lots within the walls as long as it remains inside. This includes cases where someone needs to move their car or retrieve something from it. This is our understanding, and Allāh knows best.

Therefore, spending a night in the Imām’s office or the administration area is considered part of the place of seclusion, including the rooms connected to the prayer area inside the mosque, not separate areas.

After all, Allāh knows best.

Fatwa issued by Dr. Khālid Naṣr