The concepts of Halala and temporary Nikah (Nikah Mut’ah) are among the most misunderstood Islamic rulings in family law. Although discussed in classical fiqh, both are subject to strict conditions and differences among the four Sunni schools of thought — Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali — as well as the Ja’fari (Shia) school. This guide provides a detailed, evidence-based explanation using Qur’anic verses, authentic Hadith, and classical Islamic jurisprudence. It also explains why modern scholars strictly discourage and condemn misuse of Halala and Mut’ah.
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What is Halala?
Halala refers to the scenario where a woman who has been divorced with triple talaq (Talaq-e-Mughallazah) marries another man, consummates the marriage, and the second marriage naturally ends — after which she becomes permissible (halal) again for the first husband.
Unfortunately, this ruling is often misinterpreted and misused, leading to serious ethical, moral, and legal issues.
Islamic Perspective on Halala
Halala is rooted in this Qur’anic verse:
فَاِنْ طَلَّقَهَا فَلَا تَحِلُّ لَهُ مِنْۢ بَعْدُ حَتّٰى تَنْكِحَ زَوْجًا غَيْرَهُ
“If he divorces her (for the third time), she is not lawful to him unless she marries another husband.”
— Surah Al-Baqarah 2:230
However, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ strictly condemned intentional or arranged Halala:
“Allah has cursed the one who performs Halala and the one for whom it is done.”
— Sunan Ibn Majah 1936
Therefore:
- Genuine Halala (natural second marriage) — Permissible.
- Pre-arranged, paid, or planned Halala — Completely Haram and strongly condemned.
What is Temporary Nikah (Nikah Mut’ah)?
Nikah Mut’ah is a temporary marriage contract with a fixed duration. It existed briefly in early Islamic history but was later prohibited.
Some scholars cite this verse, although its interpretation is disputed:
فَمَا اسْتَمْتَعْتُمْ بِهٖ مِنْهُنَّ فَاٰتُوْهُنَّ اُجُوْرَهُنَّ
“And for whatever enjoyment you have of them, give them their due compensation.”
— Surah An-Nisa 4:24
The Prophet ﷺ later declared Mut’ah permanently forbidden:
“Indeed, Allah has forbidden temporary marriage until the Day of Judgment.”
— Sahih Muslim 1407
Thus, according to the majority of scholars, Nikah Mut’ah is impermissible in Islam.
The Four Sunni Schools of Thought on Halala & Mut’ah
1. Hanafi School
- Accepts Halala only if the second marriage is genuine and consummated.
- Pre-arranged Halala is sinful but may still technically make the woman permissible.
- Temporary Nikah (Mut’ah) is strictly forbidden.
2. Shafi’i School
- Planned Halala is Haram and invalid.
- The second marriage must be real, not staged.
- Mut’ah is prohibited and null.
3. Maliki School
- Condemns pre-arranged Halala.
- Even unplanned Halala is discouraged.
- Mut’ah is impermissible.
4. Hanbali School
- Any Halala done with intention is sinful and invalid.
- The second marriage must aim for permanence.
- Mut’ah is strictly prohibited.
5. Ja’fari (Shia) School
- Triple talaq counts as one — Halala may not be required.
- Mut’ah exists but operates under Shia jurisprudence, not Sunni fiqh.
- All schools condemn planned Halala.
Common Misconceptions About Halala
❌ “Pre-arranged Halala is allowed” — Wrong. All schools forbid it.
❌ “Halala without consummation is valid” — Not valid.
❌ “Halala centers are Islamic” — Completely Haram.
Modern Islamic Perspectives
Scholars today strongly discourage Halala and Mut’ah due to:
- Exploitation of women
- Emotional and mental harm
- Misuse of Islamic rulings
- Commercial “Halala services” (Haram)
See related Islamic rulings:
Divorce in Islam — Complete Guide
Final Verdict — Is Halala Permissible?
- If the second marriage is genuine and ends naturally → Halala is permissible.
- If it is planned, arranged, or paid → 100% Haram & invalid.
- Nikah Mut’ah → Prohibited by majority scholars.
How InstantNikah Promotes Ethical Islamic Practices
InstantNikah does NOT conduct Halala or Mut’ah marriages. We provide only ethical, Sharia-compliant online nikah services with certified Qazis and Islamic witnesses.
- No Halala or Mut’ah services
- Certified Qazis & Islamic scholars
- Transparent, legitimate nikah procedures
- Guidance on Islamic rulings and family law
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Common Questions
1. Is Halala permissible?
Only if the second marriage is genuine and unplanned.
2. Is Nikah Mut’ah allowed?
Prohibited by the majority of scholars and forbidden in Sunni fiqh.
3. What should I do if pressured into Halala?
Speak to a trusted Islamic scholar or authority. Avoid any pre-arranged Halala.
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