What are the matters a woman must avoid while in the waiting period (‘iddah) after her husband’s death?
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The questioner : O Shaykh, a man passed away and left behind an elderly, ill wife. I do not know what is obligatory for her?
The Shaykh : When a person dies, his wife must observe the waiting period (‘iddah) for four months and ten days, unless she is pregnant, in which case it lasts until she gives birth. She is required to observe the mourning period (i‘dad) during this time. I‘dad means she must avoid perfumes, except for the scent used after menstruation, such as a woman perfuming her private parts with incense, which is permissible. She must avoid henna on the head, hands, or feet. She must avoid kohl. She must avoid beautifying herself by reddening the face with makeup or the like. She must avoid jewelry. She must avoid leaving the house except out of need or dire necessity, whether she is elderly or young.
The questioner : As for the clothing, O Shaykh?
The Shaykh : She may wear whatever clothes she wishes, provided she does not wear clothes of adornment or beauty, whether they are black, green, or any other color.
The Shaykh : When a person dies, his wife must observe the waiting period (‘iddah) for four months and ten days, unless she is pregnant, in which case it lasts until she gives birth. She is required to observe the mourning period (i‘dad) during this time. I‘dad means she must avoid perfumes, except for the scent used after menstruation, such as a woman perfuming her private parts with incense, which is permissible. She must avoid henna on the head, hands, or feet. She must avoid kohl. She must avoid beautifying herself by reddening the face with makeup or the like. She must avoid jewelry. She must avoid leaving the house except out of need or dire necessity, whether she is elderly or young.
The questioner : As for the clothing, O Shaykh?
The Shaykh : She may wear whatever clothes she wishes, provided she does not wear clothes of adornment or beauty, whether they are black, green, or any other color.