Is it permissible for a fiancée to feel anxious about accepting a divorced man with children, especially if he prefers not to talk on the phone and did not divorce his previous wife to gain custody of the children? And does a husband have the right to have conjugal relations with his estranged wife in the absence of a divorce?
A suitor is a stranger to his fiancée until the legitimate marriage contract is concluded. A man's abandonment or absence from his wife does not affect the validity of the marriage. It must be understood that marrying a married man does not justify demanding that he leave his wife or children, for the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "It is not lawful for a woman to ask for the divorce of her sister to empty her plate (i.e., take her place), for she will only have what has been decreed for her." It is recommended to fear Allah and perform Istikhara (prayer for guidance) in making the appropriate decision.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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