What are the rulings concerning a woman whose husband has died, specifically regarding her going out and visiting relatives?

Question:
What are the rulings concerning a woman whose husband has died, specifically regarding leaving the house and visiting relatives and the sick before the sun sets?

Answer:
A woman whose husband has died is required to observe the waiting period ('iddah) that Allah, Glorified and Exalted is He, mentioned in His saying: This applies if she is not pregnant. As for a woman who is pregnant, her waiting period ends upon the delivery of the child, whether it is early or late, based on His saying, the Exalted: This is a general ruling for the widow and others. During the waiting period, she is required to remain in her home.
The widow is granted a dispensation in four things. First, she must stay in the house where her husband died, remaining there day and night until the waiting period ends. She does not go out except for a need that is essential for her, and this must be during the day. As for visiting close female relatives or the sick, this does not justify her leaving the house, because this is not an essential need. The essential need is one that she must have, and nothing else can substitute for it. She goes out only during the day, not at night. The second thing is that she must avoid perfume in all its forms, whether on her body or on her clothes. The third matter is that she must avoid adornment in her clothes or adornment with jewelry. She does not wear jewelry, and she does not wear clothes of adornment. Regarding adornment on her body, she does not apply henna and does not use cosmetics or beautifying items as long as she is in the waiting period. These are the matters that are obligatory for the widow. First, crying in the house. Second, avoiding perfume. Third, avoiding the clothing of adornment. Fourth, avoiding the wearing of jewelry of any kind until it ends, until it ends