Islamic legal tradition addresses the dissolution of marriage from the perspective of both spouses. While the process and grounds for divorce can vary, generally, a woman seeking to end a marriage has recourse through several recognized procedures. One primary avenue available to a woman involves seeking a divorce through the court system, presenting evidence and justifications for the termination of the marital contract. This process can include demonstrating harm, neglect, or irreconcilable differences that make the continuation of the marriage untenable. Legal interpretations and applications of these principles differ across various Islamic jurisdictions and schools of thought.
The ability for a woman to initiate divorce proceedings is significant, representing a degree of agency and protection within the marital relationship. Historically, and in contemporary practice, access to divorce provides a mechanism for women to escape abusive or untenable situations. This right acknowledges that marriage should be a partnership based on mutual respect and well-being, and that its dissolution may be necessary when those fundamental conditions are no longer met. The specific rights and procedures available to a woman vary based on the legal system in place within a particular country or community applying Islamic principles.