they believe, and certainly a believing slave is better than an idolater, even though he please you. These invite to the Fire and Allāh invites to the Garden and to forgiveness by His will and He makes clear His messages to men that they may be mindful.

222 And they ask thee about menstruation. Say: It is harmful; so keep aloof from women during menstrual discharge and go not near them until they are clean. But when they have cleansed themselves, go in to them as Allāh has commanded you. Surely Allāh loves those who turn much (to Him), and He loves those who purify themselves.

223 Your wives are a tilth for you, so go in to your tilth when you like, and send (good) beforehand for yourselves. And keep your duty to Allāh, and know that you will meet Him. And give good news to the believers.

224 And make not Allāh by your oaths a hindrance to your doing good and keeping your duty and making peace between men. And Allāh is Hearing, Knowing.

225 Allāh will not call you to account for what is vain in your oaths, but He will call you to account for what your hearts have earned. And Allāh is Forgiving, Forbearing.

226 Those who swear that they will not go in to their wives should wait four months; then if they go back, Allāh is surely Forgiving, Merciful.

227 And if they resolve on a divorce, Allāh is surely Hearing, Knowing.

228 And the divorced women should keep themselves in waiting for three courses. And it is not lawful for them to conceal that which Allāh has created in their wombs, if they believe in Allāh and the Last Day. And their husbands have a better right to take them back in the meanwhile if they wish for reconciliation. And women have rights similar to those against them in a just manner, and men are a degree above them. And Allāh is Mighty, Wise.

229 Divorce may be (pronounced) twice; then keep (them) in good fellowship or let (them) go with kindness. And it is not lawful for you to take any part of what you have given them, unless both fear that