What is the duration and type of the waiting period (*Iddah*) for a non-Muslim woman upon the death of her husband?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Waiting Periods ('Iddah)
Primary text
The waiting period for a non-Muslim woman upon the death of her husband is the same as that of a Muslim woman. This is the opinion held by Malik, al-Thawri, al-Shafi'i, Abu Ubayd, and the companions of al-Ra'y. The textual evidence is the general verse regarding the waiting period upon death (Quran 2:234) and the similarity in status regarding the obligation of waiting period after death.
Supporting text
There is one narration from Malik stating that she observes the waiting period for death by observing one menstrual cycle (*hayd*).