Yes, iddat is compulsory after Khula.
What is Iddat?
Iddat is a waiting period that a woman must observe after the dissolution of her marriage. This period is prescribed in Islamic law and its purpose is to ensure clarity regarding a woman's marital status and to provide her with a period of reflection and adjustment.
Iddat After Khula:
Khula is a form of divorce initiated by the wife, where she returns the mehr (dowry) to her husband in exchange for the dissolution of the marriage. In this scenario, the wife is still required to observe the iddat period, just as she would after a regular divorce.
Duration of Iddat After Khula:
The duration of iddat after Khula is the same as the duration of iddat after a regular divorce. This period is typically three menstrual cycles for women who are still menstruating. However, if a woman is pregnant, she must observe iddat until the birth of her child.
Importance of Observing Iddat:
Observing iddat after Khula is an important Islamic obligation. It serves several purposes, including:
- Establishing a woman's marital status: Iddat clarifies that a woman is no longer married and allows her to remarry if she chooses to.
- Providing a period of reflection: Iddat gives the woman time to adjust emotionally and mentally to the dissolution of her marriage.
- Preventing any confusion or doubt: Iddat eliminates any uncertainty regarding a woman's marital status and prevents any potential social or legal complications.
Conclusion:
Iddat is a crucial aspect of Islamic law and is compulsory after Khula. It is a period of reflection, adjustment, and clarity for the woman, ensuring that her marital status is clear and that she is able to move forward with her life.
