Denying the baby born during the husband's absence

Q 7: Someone traveled for a long time and his wife gave birth to a baby during his absence? Is it permissible for such a husband to deny his fatherhood of the concerned baby, to divorce his wife because of this, or what should he do?

A: It is not permissible for the husband in question to deny such a baby unless he does so through Li`an (allegation of adultery against a wife, accompanied by mutual invoking of Allah’s Curse/Wrath if lying). It is worthy mentioning that Li`an is to be done in the court. However, if Li`an takes place, (Part No. 20; Page No. 340) separation between the two sides will happen and such a wife will never be lawful in marriage to the same husband. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.