What is the ruling of the Sharia on the continuation of a marital relationship after three repeated divorces, given that the marriage was not documented, and what actions should be taken to repent from this behavior?
If a husband divorces his wife before consummation or a valid seclusion (khalwa sahihah), she becomes irrevocably divorced from him with one pronouncement of divorce (talaq bain baynunah sughra). No second or third divorce can subsequently occur for her, according to the majority of scholars. However, if the divorce occurs after a valid seclusion, the ruling (fatwa) with us (the Hanbalis) is that this seclusion is treated as if it were consummation, and the husband retains the right of revocability (raj'a) during the waiting period (iddah). In contrast, the Hanafis hold that he has the right of revocability if he admits to intercourse, while the Malikis believe that it is not established unless both spouses admit to intercourse. Given the differing opinions among scholars, it is advisable to present the matter to a trustworthy scholar.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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