This is very clear. But they answered this by saying that Allah mentioned, “And if they are pregnant,” because the pregnancy may perhaps last a long time, whereas a man is only obliged to provide maintenance for the duration of three menstrual periods.

But this is an unconvincing response, for a pregnant woman remains in her waiting period until she gives birth, whether that period is long or short.

As for those who say that she is entitled to housing but not maintenance—unless she is pregnant—they argue that the verse plainly indicates this. The beginning of these verses undoubtedly concerns a revocably divorced woman, due to His saying, Exalted is He: “Then, when they have reached the end of their waiting period, either retain them honourably or part with them honourably.” [Al-Talaq: 1–2] This choice is not possible in the case of an irrevocably divorced woman.

Then He says: “And call to witness two just men from among you, and uphold the testimony for Allah. This is what is enjoined upon whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day. And whoever fears Allah, He will make for him a way out, and provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever puts his trust in Allah, then He is sufficient for him. Indeed, Allah will accomplish His purpose. Allah has appointed a measure for all things.” [Al-Talaq] Up to this point, the discussion concerns the revocably divorced woman. He then mentioned the waiting period of pregnant women and that of women who no longer menstruate, and said: “Lodge them where you yourselves live, according to your means, and do not harm them so as to make their lives difficult. And if they are pregnant, then provide for them.” [Al-Talaq] And this