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When does the ‘iddah begin for a woman whose husband went missing then was found dead?

29-06-2009

Question 127962

There is a woman whose husband went missing, and after a week he was found dead, and it is believed that he died three days earlier. When does her ‘iddah begin? Is it from the time that he went missing, or from the date that it is thought that he died, or from the date that he was found?.

Answer

Praise be to Allah.

She should start her ‘iddah from the time that he was found dead, because this is what is certain, and it (‘iddah) is four months and ten days, during which she also has to observe mourning, unless she is pregnant, in which case it ends when she gives birth, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“And those of you who die and leave wives behind them, they (the wives) shall wait (as regards their marriage) for four months and ten days”

[al-Baqarah 2:234]

“And for those who are pregnant (whether they are divorced or their husbands are dead), their ‘Iddah (prescribed period) is until they lay down their burden”

[al-Talaaq 65:4]

And because it is proven that the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allaah be upon him) advised Subay’ah al-Aslamiyyah that her ‘iddah had ended when she gave birth. Saheeh, agreed upon.

And Allaah is the source of strength. End quote.

Waiting Period of Widow or Divorcee

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