What is the ruling if a woman declares her waiting period ('Iddah) has ended, and then retracts that declaration?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Reconciliation (Return During 'Iddah)

Book 40 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

If a woman states her 'Iddah has ended, and then states that it has not ended yet, the husband retains the right of *ruju'* (taking her back). This is because her initial statement was an admission of a falsehood regarding a matter that establishes a right upon her, thus her admission is accepted. The ruling follows the initial period of 'Iddah.

Supporting text

The position aligns with Abu Hanifa and one opinion attributed to Al-Shafi'i.