Only one Talaaq

Marriage is not a matter of one or two days. It is a matter of life. That is why it is a mistake, (in general), to think about giving Talaaq. However, sometimes this 'error' has to be made in order to rectify a more serious mistak. And this is done by giving Talaaq. The fact that Talaaq is something detestable, minimum use should be made. The minimum is one Talaaq only. One Talaaq only suffice to separate a couple even if the two parties do not have any intention to revoke it afterwards. One Talaaq is sufficient to allow a woman to build her future after the completion of her 'Iddah. People think that it is absolutely necessary to give three Talaaq for separation. But it is a mistake. How many people made the irreparable mistake of giving the three Talaaq. That is why one should not listen to just everything that people say. Each field has specialised people to give the appropriate information. One must learn Deen with those who have learned Deen in a professional way under the professionals of Deen. Otherwise, one will seek separation where there can be reconciliation and one will seek reconciliation where one must separate. Thus, in principle, one should not think of giving Talaaq. But if there is a necessity to give, then one should give only one Talaaq. And that also should be in a period of purity where copulation did not yet take place. After giving one Talaaq to the wife, she must observe 'Iddah for three menstrual periods. Through this method of giving Talaaq, one will have the right to take the wife back in Nikah without renewing the Nikah within these three menstrual periods. But if ever these three periods have elapsed without one taking her back in Nikah, she will be out of Nikah. Now, if both parties want to return together, they may return but they have to renew the Nikah. See how much arrangements the Shariah has made. We cause ourselves great difficulties by giving all the three Talaaqs at once and we close the door forever. Thereafter, one runs here and there to find a solution where there is no solution. Finally, someone tells you that three Talaaq counts as one. You know very well that this is not right but you pretend not to know. You turn your back on the truth and you choose to live in haraam forever. May Allah Ta'ala protect us all.

[English version of "Ene seul talaaq" – Al Jamiat – Vol.7 No.10]