What is the legitimate Islamic position regarding the marriage of a widow who has children, and does that diminish her standing or the standing of her children? And why has her feeling towards Istikhara (guidance prayer) changed despite her prior inclination to marry? And should Istikhara be repeated?

The sign of acceptance of Istikhara is the facilitation of the matter for which Istikhara was performed, not the feeling of inner peace, which can be influenced by one's own desires. The supplication of Istikhara emphasizes this meaning by asking for the preordainment and facilitation of the blessed matter.

The marriage of a widow after the expiration of her 'iddah does not diminish her status. Rather, Islamic law generally encourages marriage. Allah Almighty says concerning a woman whose husband has died: "And when they have fulfilled their term, there is no blame upon you for what they do with themselves in a lawful manner."

Therefore, if the suitor is a man of religion and good character, and it is thought that he will take care of the two children, then it is advisable to accept him as a husband. However, if the mother is specifically displeased with marrying him, then it is advisable to obey the mother, unless there is a fear of falling into the forbidden and no one else has proposed with the guardian's consent.