The Majestic Quran

233 Divorced mothers may breastfeed their children up to full two years; that is if they wish to complete the full term. The father of the child is responsible for the mother’s food and clothing in accordance with the best practice. However , no one is to be burdened over and above their means. Neither should the mother be harmed because of her child, nor the father. The same goes for the father’s heirs. No one shall be to blame if the father or the mother wishes to wean the child, and it is agreed by mutual consent after proper consultation. Likewise, if you wish to employ a nanny for your children, you can ’ t be blamed, if you pay as agreed in accordance with the best practice. Always be mindful of God, and know that He sees what you do. T , 234 Those who die, leaving behind widows, their widows should wait for four months and ten days then, once they have reached the end of this period, there is no blame on you regarding whatever they choose to do with themselves in accordance with the best practice. God is aware of what you do. 235 There is no blame on you if you propose engagement to these women before the end of the waiting period , or you keep your feelings to yourself. God knows that you intend to propose to them. However, do not make them any promises unless you speak to them in a respectful way, and do not confirm contracting the marriage until the prescribed waiting term has ended. Remember that God knows what is in your hearts, so beware. God is the Forgiving, The Gentle. W 236 There is no blame on you if you divorce a woman before either consummating the marriage or paying the marriage gift. Let the rich and the poor each give them generously according to their means; this is a duty on the righteous. 237 If you divorce them before consummation but after fixing the marriage gift, then let them have half of what you had previously settled on, unless the women agree to waive their right or the one contracting the marriage tie waives his right, and waiving one’s right is nearer to piety. So, do not forget to be gracious to each other, because God sees all that you do. N