MARRIAGE | Miscellaneous |

Apostate leaves Christian husband and now wishes to marry a Muslim

Question: She apostasised and married a Christian. She then returned to the fold of Islaam and left him. So how long would her 'iddah (waiting period) be in order for her to marry someone else?

Response: Did she have intercourse with him (the Christian)?

Question: Yes, she had intercourse with him.

Response: (It is sufficient for her to allow the passing of) one menstrual cycle according to the predominant opinion; And it is said that it is imperative she allows the passing of three menstrual cycles. However, the predominant opinion is (that she allows the passing of) one menstrual cycle. This is because her marriage to the Christian was correct (legal) whilst she was an apostate. And Allaah is the Most Knowledgeable.

Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen

Fataawa Mu'aasarah - Page 86-87

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Published: 31 August 2006