• The verses conclude with a reminder of His all-embracing knowledge, indicating that the All-Knowing, All-Wise has legislated these rulings so that they remain sound and beneficial for His servants in every time and place.

• In His Book He has specified the waiting period (ʿiddah) for a woman who separates from her husband, according to her particular situation:

– For a woman divorced while she still menstruates, the waiting period is the completion of three menstrual cycles (1) after the divorce takes effect.
– For the woman who no longer menstruates, and for one who has not yet begun to menstruate because of young age or similar reasons, the waiting period is three months.
– For the woman whose husband has died, the waiting period is “four months and ten days” [al-Baqarah 2:234].
– For a pregnant woman—whether separated during the husband’s lifetime or after his death—the waiting period ends when she delivers.

Within these appointed periods and their precise measure lie secrets, wisdoms, and benefits for both spouses and others; they are among the signs of Allah for those who reflect with insight.