I want to Zainab bint Jahsh when her brother died. She asked for perfume and used some of it and said, "By Allah, I am not in need of perfume, but I have heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) saying on the pulpit, 'It is not lawful for a lady who believes in Allah and the last day to mourn for more than three days except for her husband for whom she should mourn for four months and ten days.'"
Hadith Context & Significance
This narration from Sahih al-Bukhari 5335, found in the Book of Divorce, demonstrates the practical application of Islamic mourning regulations by one of the Prophet's wives, Zainab bint Jahsh. Her actions serve as a living commentary (tafsir) on the prophetic teaching regarding 'Iddah (waiting period) and mourning etiquette.
Scholarly Commentary on Mourning Periods
The distinguished position of a husband necessitates an extended mourning period of four months and ten days, which coincides with the prescribed 'Iddah for a widow. This period allows for clarification of possible pregnancy and honors the marital bond.
For all other relatives, including beloved brothers like Zainab's, the Shari'ah limits mourning to three days. This prevents excessive grief that may lead to neglecting religious duties or questioning divine decree (qadr).
The Wisdom Behind Perfume Application
Zainab's deliberate use of perfume after the three-day mourning period exemplifies complete submission to Allah's command. Her explicit statement clarifies that this act was not for personal desire but purely in obedience to the Prophet's teachings, demonstrating that outward actions must reflect inner conviction.
Classical scholars note that resuming normal grooming practices after mourning signifies acceptance of Allah's decree and a return to social obligations, preventing isolation and excessive sorrow condemned in Islamic teachings.
Legal Rulings Derived
Mourning (ihdad) beyond three days for anyone other than one's husband is religiously prohibited (haram).
The four-month-ten-day period for a widow is obligatory (wajib) and constitutes part of her 'Iddah during which she cannot remarry or receive marriage proposals.
This hadith establishes that prophetic commands conveyed from the pulpit carry the weight of formal religious legislation requiring immediate implementation by the community.