Bequeath a year’s maintenance for a widow

When a husband passes away, the Quran instructs that his widow should be provided for from his estate for a whole year. This guidance ensures that she has financial security during such a difficult time. The requirement is to not turn her out of her home, acknowledging her emotional and economic needs. The context of this rule can be better understood through Tafsīr and Hadith. In Tafsīr Ibn Kathir, it is explained that this maintenance was initially set for a longer period, but it was later specified to the Iddah period, which is four months and ten days, as mentioned in Surah Al-Baqarah 2:234. However, this verse, 2:240, emphasizes the compassionate aspect of taking care of a widow for an entire year, underscoring the importance of her well-being. The extra nine months beyond the Iddah period are recommended to show kindness and generosity, as the initial grief period could be burdensome. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) always emphasized the protection and care for women, especially widows. In our daily lives, this principle encourages us to act with empathy and support those in need, especially when they are going through life-changing events like the loss of a loved one. Providing for a widow not only fulfills religious obligations but also demonstrates mercy and compassion, qualities that are highly esteemed in Islam.