Islamic jurisprudence acknowledges the dissolution of marriage. While marital unions are encouraged to be enduring, provisions exist within Islamic law that permit a couple to end their marriage under specific circumstances. These circumstances range from irreconcilable differences to instances of abuse or neglect, reflecting a pragmatic approach to complex marital challenges.
The allowance for marital termination serves several important functions. It offers a pathway for individuals trapped in untenable or harmful relationships to seek legal separation. This protection is particularly crucial for women who might otherwise be vulnerable in patriarchal contexts. Historically, these legal avenues provided a means of recourse where reconciliation efforts proved unsuccessful, ensuring a degree of individual autonomy within the framework of marriage.
