Divorce suspended on a clear condition

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Q 2: What is the ruling of Shari`ah (Islamic law) on someone who said to his wife, "After you are purified from your next menstruation, you will be divorced"? This man really meant to divorce his wife, but later before her menstrual period, he decided to keep her. Is this considered one time of divorce? Will it also be considered a time of divorce if the husband decides to keep her after she is purified?

A: This is a conditional divorce suspended on a clear condition. It is not meant to urge oneself to do something or to abstain from doing a certain act. The divorce will be effective once the condition is fulfilled, which is being purified after menstruation. It is not permissible for the husband to change his mind after stipulating this condition. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.