❖ Can a Female Student Continue Her Studies During ʿIddah? ❖
This ruling is excerpted from the book “500 Questions and Answers for Women”, based on the Fatwas of the Scholars of the Haramain, translated by Hafiz Abdullah Saleem.
A female student’s husband passed away, requiring her to observe the ʿiddah (waiting period).
Is it permissible for her to continue her education during this time?
A woman whose husband passes away is obligated to observe ʿiddah for four months and ten days in the same house where she lived with her husband. During this period, she must:
Stay within the home except in cases of genuine need.
Avoid all beautifying elements, such as:
- Applying perfume or fragrance
- Wearing kohl (surma) for adornment
- Donning decorative or attractive clothing
- Using any cosmetic enhancements
These practices are to be avoided completely as part of mourning and modesty.
It is permissible for the student to attend school or educational institutes during ʿiddah if it is for the purpose of seeking knowledge or understanding religious matters, as this is considered a valid necessity.
However, she must:
☑ Continue to avoid beautification
☑ Refrain from anything that might attract male attention or lead to marriage proposals, such as wearing perfumes, makeup, or alluring attire.
(Permanent Committee for Islamic Research and Fatwa – Dār al-Iftāʾ Committee)
This ruling is excerpted from the book “500 Questions and Answers for Women”, based on the Fatwas of the Scholars of the Haramain, translated by Hafiz Abdullah Saleem.
❖ Question:
A female student’s husband passed away, requiring her to observe the ʿiddah (waiting period).
Is it permissible for her to continue her education during this time?
❖ Answer:
A woman whose husband passes away is obligated to observe ʿiddah for four months and ten days in the same house where she lived with her husband. During this period, she must:
❖ Observe the Following Restrictions:
Stay within the home except in cases of genuine need. Avoid all beautifying elements, such as:- Applying perfume or fragrance
- Wearing kohl (surma) for adornment
- Donning decorative or attractive clothing
- Using any cosmetic enhancements
These practices are to be avoided completely as part of mourning and modesty.
✔ Ruling on Attending School:
It is permissible for the student to attend school or educational institutes during ʿiddah if it is for the purpose of seeking knowledge or understanding religious matters, as this is considered a valid necessity.However, she must:
☑ Continue to avoid beautification
☑ Refrain from anything that might attract male attention or lead to marriage proposals, such as wearing perfumes, makeup, or alluring attire.
(Permanent Committee for Islamic Research and Fatwa – Dār al-Iftāʾ Committee)
