It is haram for a
Muslim man to propose to a divorced or widowed woman
during her 'iddah (that is, the waiting period during
which she is not allowed to remarry), for this waiting
period is part of the previous marriage and may not be
violated.
Although one may, during this period, convey
his desire for marriage through indirect hints or
suggestions, it may not be done through an explicit
proposal. Says Allah Ta'ala: And there is no blame on
you in what you proclaim or hide in your minds
concerning betrothal to women.... (2:235) It is likewise
forbidden to the Muslim to propose to a woman who is
already betrothed to a brother Muslim; the one whose
proposal has already been accepted has acquired a right
which must be safeguarded in consideration of goodwill
and affection among people, especially among his brother
Muslims. However, if the first suitor terminates his
betrothal or gives the second suitor his permission,
there is no harm in proceeding with it.
Muslim reported
that the Messenger of Allah (peace be on him) said,
"A Believer is a brother to another Believer. It is
therefore not lawful for him to outbid his brother in
buying something or to propose to a woman when his
brother has done so, unless he gives him
permission." And al-Bukhari reported that the
Prophet (peace be on him) said, "A man must not
propose to anther man's betrothed unless he withdraws or
gives him permission."
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