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The Quran 2: 229
Last Day, it is not lawful for them to conceal what God has created in
their wombs: their husbands would do better to take them back
during this period, provided they wish to put things right. Wives
have [rights] similar to their [obligations], according to what is
recognized to be fair, and husbands have a degree [of right] over
them: [both should remember that] God is almighty and wise.
229 Divorce can happen twice, and [each time] wives either be kept
on in an acceptable manner or released in a good way. It is not lawful
for you to take back anything that you have given [your wives], except
where both fear that they cannot maintain [the marriage] within the
bounds set by God: if you [arbiters] suspect that the couple may not
be able to do this, then there will be no blame on either of them if the
woman opts to give something for her release. a These are the bounds
set by God: do not overstep them. It is those who overstep God’s
bounds who are doing wrong. 230 If a husband re-divorces his wife
after the second divorce, she will not be lawful for him until she has
taken another husband; if that one divorces her, there will be no
blame if she and the first husband return to one another, provided
they feel that they can keep within the bounds set by God. These are
God’s bounds, which He makes clear for those who know.
231 When you divorce women and they have reached their set time,
then either keep or release them in a fair manner. Do not hold on to
them with intent to harm them and commit aggression: anyone who
does this wrongs himself. Do not make a mockery of God’s revelations;
remember the favour He blessed you with, and the Scripture
and wisdom He sent to teach you. Be mindful of God and know that
He has full knowledge of everything. 232 When you divorce women
and they have reached their set time, do not prevent them from
remarrying their husbands if they both agree to do so in a fair
manner. b Let those of you who believe in God and the Last Day take
this to heart: that is more wholesome and purer for you. God knows
and you do not.
233 Mothers suckle their children for two whole years, if they wish
to complete the term, and clothing and maintenance must be borne
by the father in a fair manner. No one should be burdened with more
than they can bear: no mother shall be made to suffer harm on
a By paying back all or part of the dowry in return for divorce.
b Sometimes a woman’s father or brother would interfere to stop her reconciling with
her husband. Here the Quran condemns such interference.