Iddat is a prescribed waiting period that a Muslim woman must observe after the dissolution of her marriage, whether through divorce or the death of her husband. The concept of Iddat is rooted in Islamic law (Shariah) and aims to ensure that issues related to lineage and inheritance are clarified before any new marriage can take place. 1. Iddat in Case of Divorce: When it applies: Iddat applies when a woman undergoes divorce, either through Talaq (husband's divorce) or Khula (wife's request for divorce). Duration: The duration of Iddat after a divorce is generally 3 menstrual cycles (approximately 3 months). If the woman is pregnant, the waiting period lasts until the birth of the child. Purpose: The waiting period serves multiple purposes: To ensure that the woman is not pregnant, thus determining paternity. To give time for reconciliation, as divorce may be reversible within certain periods. 2. Iddat in Case of Husband’s Death: When it applies: Iddat also applies when a woman’s husband dies, regardless of whether the marriage was consummated. Duration: In the case of the husband's death, the Iddat period lasts for 4 months and 10 days. This is the prescribed period for the widow to observe mourning. Purpose: The mourning period reflects respect for the deceased husband and allows the widow time to adjust emotionally and socially. It also ensures clarity regarding any potential pregnancy and inheritance issues. 3. Special Cases: Post-Menopausal Women: For women who have gone through menopause and are no longer menstruating, the Iddat period is 3 lunar months. Pregnancy: If the woman is pregnant at the time of divorce or the husband's death, the Iddat period lasts until the birth of the child, regardless of the time of divorce or death. 4. Prohibitions During Iddat: During the Iddat period, a woman is generally prohibited from remarrying. She is expected to remain in her deceased husband's home or, in the case of divorce, remain in the home she was residing in at the time of divorce. Summary: Iddat is a waiting period in Islamic law that a woman must observe after divorce or the death of her husband. The duration of Iddat is 3 menstrual cycles after divorce or 4 months and 10 days after the husband’s death. If the woman is pregnant, the waiting period lasts until the child’s birth. It ensures clarity regarding paternity and inheritance rights and allows for emotional and social adjustment.