Is the maintenance/lodging (sukna) of a widow obligatory if she is not pregnant?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Waiting Periods ('Iddah)
Primary text
The lodging of a widow whose husband has died is not obligatory if she is not pregnant, according to a single narration among our companions (Ashabuna). Regarding evidence, there are opposing views. Those who hold the view of obligation cite the verse: "And those who are taken in death among you and leave wives behind - for them is a bequest of maintenance for one year without expulsion..." (Quran 2:240), arguing that since part of the term was abrogated, the remainder remains obligatory. They also cite the command of the Prophet, peace be upon him, to Furay'ah to stay in her house without seeking permission from the heirs, which implies the lodging is obligatory, similar to her inability to dispose of the deceased's wealth without their permission.
Supporting text
The opposing view holds that Allah assigned the wife only an eighth or a quarter of the estate, and the lodging is part of the estate, so she should not receive more than that share. Furthermore, she is irrevocably separated from her husband, resembling one divorced three times.