🧭 Preparation & choosing a spouse · #19
What is the ruling on marrying a widow, divorcee, widower or divorced man?
Marrying a widow, divorcee, widower or divorced man is permissible and honourable; there is no deficiency in that status under the Shariah.
Most of the Prophet's ﷺ wives were previously married, including Khadijah r.a., who was older. The command in an-Nur 24:32 to marry off al-ayama covers unmarried women and men, including the widowed and divorced. Practical matters must be prepared: relations with the former spouse, maintenance and custody of existing children, the role of step-parent, and making sure the woman's ʿiddah has ended before the akad. Avoid social stigma against divorced or widowed women — it is contrary to Islamic character. See Children regarding stepchildren.
Most of the Prophet's ﷺ wives were previously married, including Khadijah r.a., who was older. The command in an-Nur 24:32 to marry off al-ayama covers unmarried women and men, including the widowed and divorced. Practical matters must be prepared: relations with the former spouse, maintenance and custody of existing children, the role of step-parent, and making sure the woman's ʿiddah has ended before the akad. Avoid social stigma against divorced or widowed women — it is contrary to Islamic character. See Children regarding stepchildren.
Sources
Surah an-Nur 24:32Surah al-Baqarah 2:234–235