Childlessness and Divorce in Islam: A Guide to Khula’ and Seeking Help

When a Husband Refuses to Grant a Divorce: What Can a Childless Woman Do

Question: A woman has been married for over eight years but has not had children. Her husband accuses her of being the reason and refuses to seek treatment. She has already undergone medical treatment. Now she wishes to separate, but her husband refuses to grant a divorce and demands 600,000 in exchange for granting khula’. What should she do?

Answer: The woman should exercise patience and believe that granting children is solely in Allah’s hands. Allah says:  

"To Allah belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth. He creates what He wills. He bestows female (offspring) upon whom He wills, and bestows male (offspring) upon whom He willre" (Ash-Shura: 49).  

This verse emphasizes that only Allah decides who will have children, and neither the husband nor the wife has control over it.  

If the woman finds no way to reconcile, she should seek the assistance of a knowledgeable scholar to mediate and, if necessary, facilitate the khula’ process. For more information, she can refer to my detailed article, “The Procedure of Khula’ and Some of Its Issues,” available on my blog.

Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah

Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia

English Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail