Iddat

Iddat (also spelled 'iddat') is a prescribed waiting period in Islamic law that a woman must observe after the end of her marriage, whether due to divorce, widowhood, or the death of her spouse. The primary purpose of iddat is to determine if the woman is pregnant, ensuring clarity about paternity before any remarriage. It also serves as a period of mourning and reflection, allowing emotional adjustment and ensuring the woman's rights are protected.

The duration of iddat varies depending on the circumstances. For women whose marriages end due to divorce, the waiting period is generally three menstrual cycles or three lunar months, provided she is not pregnant. If the woman is pregnant, the iddat extends until childbirth, regardless of the length of pregnancy. In the case of widowhood, the iddat period is four months and ten days (approximately 130 days), meant to honor the mourning process. If a woman is pregnant at the time of her husband's death, her iddat continues until she gives birth.

During iddat, the woman is traditionally advised to remain in her home and avoid wearing adornments or engaging in new marriages. The rules and durations for iddat are specified in the Quran, Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), and Islamic jurisprudence, with variations among different Islamic schools of thought.

Iddat underscores principles of decency, respect, and clarity within Islamic marital practices. It ensures the rights of the woman and her potential child are safeguarded, reinforcing social and familial stability in accordance with Islamic teachings.