Is It Permissible for a Grandfather to Marry His Grandson’s Widow?

❖ Question:​

Is it permissible for a grandfather (nāna) to marry the widow of his grandson (nawāsā)?

✿ Answer:​

It is not permissible.

❀ Qur’anic Evidence:​

وَحَلَائِلُ أَبْنَائِكُمُ ٱلَّذِينَ مِنْ أَصْلَـٰبِكُمْ

“And (forbidden to you in marriage are) the wives of your sons who are from your loins.”


Sūrah al-Nisāʾ: 23


While the verse specifically mentions biological sons, Islamic scholars explain that the same ruling extends to grandsons, whether they are from one’s son or daughter.


Therefore, just as it is forbidden to marry the wife of one's son, it is likewise forbidden to marry the widow of one's grandson — including a daughter’s son (i.e., nawāsā).

Key Ruling:​

☞ A grandfather (nāna) is prohibited from marrying his grandson’s widow, as she falls under the category of Ḥarām (prohibited) relationships, just like the wife of one’s own son.