Surah Al-Baqarah — Ayah 228 (2:228)

English translation (Saheeh International)

Divorced women remain in waiting [i.e., do not remarry] for three periods,¹ and it is not lawful for them to conceal what Allāh has created in their wombs if they believe in Allāh and the Last Day. And their husbands have more right to take them back in this [period] if they want reconciliation.² And due to them [i.e., the wives] is similar to what is expected of them, according to what is reasonable.³ But the men [i.e., husbands] have a degree over them [in responsibility and authority]. And Allāh is Exalted in Might and Wise.

1. Either menstrual periods or periods of purity between menstruation. See also 65:1-7.
2. The husband may return her to himself during the ʿiddah period of a first and second divorce without a new marriage contract.
3. The wife has specific rights upon her husband, just as the husband has rights upon her.

Brief commentary

Divorced women must not remarry after a divorce for three menstrual periods. If they are true in their faith in Allah and the Last Day, they may not hide the foetus that Allah has created in their wombs. Their husbands, who issued the divorce, have the first right to recall them during the waiting period if their intention is to live well with them and to cancel what has occurred because of the divorce. Wives have rights and obligations like those of husbands in a manner that people consider fair. Men have a higher rank than them in terms of responsibility and with respect to divorce. Allah is Mighty and nothing can overcome His decree. He is Wise in His legislation and planning.