Taking one's wife back after divorcing her then doubting whether it was during her `Iddah or not

Q: A man divorced his wife then took her back in marriage in the presence of two witnesses. After a long period of time, he had doubts whether he took his wife back during the period of `Iddah (woman's prescribed waiting period after divorce or widowhood), or she was pregnant at the time of divorce and when taking her back in marriage. Bear in mind that he thinks that he has revoked the marriage in less than three months. After asking his wife repeatedly about this, she said that at the time of Talaq (divorce pronounced by a husband) and revocation, she was pregnant. Is it legally sufficient to depend on her words, and what should he do about these doubts that arise after such a long period?


A: If the reality is as mentioned, that the man gave his wife a revocable divorce and took her back while she was still pregnant, then she is his lawful wife and his taking her back in marriage is valid. However, in case of any disputes, the matter should be referred to a Shari`ah court in the country of the spouses. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.


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