Questions Regarding The Waiting Period (Idda)
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What is the proper conduct of the widow after the death of her husband? The 'iddah', (waiting period) is well known - she may not marry again until 4 months and 10 days have passed. Is there any other recommended conduct? Specifically:
1. Why is the iddah after divorce and death different?
2. Is there any difference between an old or a young widow?
3. Is there any iddah for the man?
4. Should the widow wear black?
5. Does she have to stay at home, or be home before maghrib?
Answer
Al-Salam alaykum
The iddah (waiting period) for a non-pregnant woman whose husband passes away is 4 months and 10 days. The `iddah for a pregnant women is until delivery.
This applies to both a young and old woman and whether the marriage was consummated or not. There is no `iddah for a man.
During this period the woman has to refrain from all those things whereby women beautify themselves. e.g. perfume, wearing fancy clothing, applying antimony, combing hair (for purposes of beautification not for tidiness), wearing jewellery etc. The clothes she wears can be any colour - it is not necessary that she wears only black.
A woman in her `idda must remain at home throughout the entire period. However in the case of dire necessity (e.g. a woman whose husband has passed away does not have sufficient means to support herself during that period and needs to earn) then it will be permissible for her to leave the house during the day for the shortest possible time in which the need can be fulfilled and thereafter return home.
Abu Usamah
This answer was published by SunniPath and is preserved as written. Rulings can depend on circumstances; for your own situation, consult a qualified scholar.
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