Didn't you see that such and such daughter of al-Hakam was divorced by her husband with an irrevocable divorce, and she left (the house of her husband)? Thereupon 'A'isha (Allah be pleased with her) said: It was bad that she did. He ( Urwa) said: Have you not heard the words of Fatima? Thereupon she said: There if no good for her in making mention of it.
The Book of Divorce - Sahih Muslim 1481c
A commentary from the classical Islamic scholarly perspective on the incident involving a woman's irrevocable divorce and departure from her husband's house.
Contextual Analysis
This narration concerns a woman who received a triple divorce (irrevocable) and immediately left her husband's residence. The Companions' discussion reveals important legal and social considerations regarding divorce proceedings.
Legal Ruling on Departure
Aisha's disapproval indicates that a woman in irrevocable divorce should observe her waiting period ('iddah) in her husband's house, as established in Quranic injunctions. Immediate departure contradicts proper Islamic procedure.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars explain that during the 'iddah period, the divorced couple remain in the same residence but maintain proper boundaries. This preserves the woman's rights to maintenance and protects her from social criticism.
Aisha's final remark about Fatima suggests that discussing such matters publicly brings no benefit and may cause unnecessary attention to personal affairs.
Practical Implications
This hadith establishes that hasty departure after irrevocable divorce is religiously improper. The waiting period serves multiple purposes: confirming pregnancy, allowing reconciliation possibilities, and maintaining social decorum.