Pause, Before You Act

CULTURE OF COMPASSION of God while issuing a divorce according to the prescribed method, God will make it easier for him to reconcile.” (Tafsir al-Qurtubi, Vol. 18, p. 165) Often, in a moment of anger and without considering the future, a man may impulsively divorce his wife. If he ignores the lawful method and issues three divorces in one sitting, he creates serious complications for himself. On the other hand, if he is mindful of God, he will refrain from such impulsive action. Instead, he will issue a single divorce according to the lawful process. Then, by the following month—after his anger has subsided and he has had time to reflect—he may realize that the divorce was a mistake. In that case, the door to reconciliation remains open under the law, and the marriage can be resumed. This principle extends to all areas of life. When life is lived in accordance with the natural and prescribed path, it remains balanced and stable. Disruption only arises when one deviates from this path. God-consciousness (taqwa) helps a person stay on the natural course. It instills caution and mindfulness. A cautious and thoughtful person does not act on impulse or in response to negative emotions. He pauses and reflects before making decisions. Instead of being driven by emotion, he acts on sound reasoning. As a result, he avoids unnecessary hardship and finds the smoother path—one that leads all the way to the destination.