Proposing to an engaged woman

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Q 4: If a man proposes to a woman, and her family agrees, then he travels for a year or more, and another man proposes to her, is it permissible to accept the second man's proposal?

A: If they had only agreed upon engagement, her father might accept the second man's proposal if he thinks it is better for his daughter and she agrees to it. However, the second man cannot engage her unless he knows that the first one no longer wants her, her family no longer wants him, or he gives him permission to do so, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) prohibited a man to propose to a woman after someone else had proposed to her. If the first man has written a marriage contract with her, it is impermissible for her father to accept the second man's proposal. It is also impermissible to marry the second one until (Part No. 18; Page No. 52) the first one divorces her or dies and her `Iddah (woman's prescribed waiting period after divorce or widowhood) comes to an end. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.