Ntention to divorce one’s wife:

Q 1: A friend of mine married a girl, whom he did not love, under the pressure of (Part No. 20; Page No. 194) his family, and especially his parents. After marrying her, he felt he did not want to live with her but since she was going through some hard times, he intended to divorce her once they are over and her psychological condition is better. He occasionally had intercourse with her and she gave birth to two daughters during this period. Then he traveled to a remote region and left her while still intending to divorce her. He was just waiting for the appropriate time and for her circumstances to get better. Some of his relatives tried to dissuade him, but he refused and insisted on leaving her.Later on, he changed his mind and now he is living with her in the same house.The question is: Is he sinful for having the intention of divorce without divorcing her?

A: If he did not express his intention of divorce verbally or in writing, divorce is not effective, for the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Truly Allah overlooks what my people say to themselves, as long as they do not act upon it or say it (out loud).” May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.