Is *Ihdad* (mourning abstinence) obligatory upon a widow?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Waiting Periods ('Iddah)
Primary text
The obligation of *Ihdad* (abstaining from adornment, perfuming, and face covering) upon a widow is unanimously agreed upon by scholars, except for al-Hasan, whose opinion dissenting from this obligation is considered anomalous and contrary to the Sunnah and is disregarded. This obligation applies equally to free women and slave women, Muslim and non-Muslim women (*Dhimmiyah*), and both adult and minor women.
Supporting text
The proponents of the view that *Ihdad* is not required for a *Dhimmiyah* or a minor argue that they are not legally accountable (mukallaf). However, the correct view is that the general proofs of *Ihdad* apply to all, and non-accountable persons share accountability with accountable persons in avoiding prohibitions like wine and adultery, differing only in sin; similarly, the rights of a *Dhimmiyah* in marriage imply similar obligations regarding what is incumbent upon her.