But if he is sure that he uttered a divorce yet uncertain how many times he pronounced it, only one divorce is binding, for that is what is certain, whereas anything beyond it is doubtful, and certainty is not displaced by doubt. This is a broad, beneficial maxim that applies to every legal ruling. It is taken from the Prophet’s words: “Leave that which troubles you for that which does not trouble you,” and from his instruction to the person who was certain of his state of purity but unsure whether it had been nullified: “He should not depart until he hears a sound or perceives a smell,” as well as other reports.

Such rulings bear witness to the leniency and completeness of the sharia; so praise be to Allah, Lord of all worlds.