Is divorce effected by what one thinks to oneself? And is it permissible for a husband to verbally take back his wife with whom he has not consummated the marriage, given that he has not divorced her?

Divorce does not occur merely by intention or self-talk according to the majority of scholars, who cite the Prophet's (peace and blessings be upon him) saying: "Indeed, Allah has forgiven my nation for whatever thoughts cross their minds, as long as they do not act upon them or speak of them." Accordingly, uttering a pronouncement of return (raj'ah) is baseless because the divorce did not occur in the first place. It is advised not to dwell on such thoughts to maintain marital harmony and love.