The Ruling on Raj'ah (Taking Back a Wife) by Intention Without Verbal Pronouncement

Question:
Honorable Shaykh, is it sufficient for raj'ah (taking back a wife) that he intends in his heart to take her back?

Answer:
If he verbally pronounces the raj'ah, the raj'ah is accomplished. This is based on the saying of the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) There is no joking or playfulness in raj'ah, just as there is none in divorce. If he pronounces it, or if he has intercourse with his wife, the raj'ah is accomplished, even if he says, "I did not intend it." You mentioned recently that if he has intercourse with her, the raj'ah is accomplished, even if he says, "I did not intend the raj'ah," because there is no playfulness or joking in this. Yes.