What are the obligations of a widow regarding residence and travel during her waiting period?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Waiting Periods ('Iddah)
Primary text
A widow is not permitted to travel for Hajj or any other purpose during her waiting period. This is reported from Umar and Uthman, and agreed upon by Saeed ibn al-Musayyib, Al-Qasim, Malik, Al-Shafi'i, Abu Ubaid, the People of Opinion (*Ashab ar-Ra'y*), and Al-Thawri.
Supporting text
If she leaves and her husband dies en route, she must return if she was nearby, as she is considered in the ruling of staying put (*iqamah*). If she traveled a great distance, she must proceed with her journey. Malik opined that she must return unless she has already entered the state of *ihram*. The correct view is that she is not required to return if the distance is great, as it causes her hardship and difficulty. If she chooses to return when far away, it is permissible if she can reach her home before her iddah expires. If returning poses danger or harm, she should proceed with her journey. If she returns with time remaining in her iddah, she must complete the remainder in her husband's home without dispute, as she had the ability to observe it there had she not traveled.