What is the legitimate Islamic solution for dealing with a brother's wife who has caused severe harm (such as sorcery and lying) to her husband's family, denied her actions by falsely swearing on the Quran, and has abandoned the marital home, while some imams have advised against divorcing her?
The oppressor should not inform the oppressed of his injustice, but rather suffice with supplicating for him, seeking forgiveness, and similar acts, to avoid increasing the harm to the oppressed, to prevent potential animosity between them, and to preserve harmony and love. If the oppressed asks, it is not obligatory to admit the truth from the two accounts. As for confession, it depends on individuals and circumstances; it may purify hearts or lead to corruption. If confession is not obligatory, then insinuation is permissible, not outright lying, and when swearing an oath, insinuation is also permissible. In the case of adultery, repentance is achieved by showing kindness to the spouse through supplication, seeking forgiveness, or giving charity on their behalf, and confession is not obligatory. The repentance of the adulterer with the wife is like the repentance of the slanderer. As for injustice related to blood or money, the right must be fulfilled. Regarding divorce, if it is possible to reform the wife and for her to repent from sorcery, then it is preferable to keep her; otherwise, the harm should be removed. The husband is advised to seek guidance through istikhara prayer and not to accuse without clear evidence.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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