When you divorce women, and they have reached their term, do not debar them from marrying their husbands, when they have agreed together honourably. That is an admonition for whoso of you believes in God and the Last Day; that is cleaner and purer for you; God knows, and you know not. 232 ۞ The mothers should suckle their babies for a period of two years for those (fathers) who wish that they should complete the suckling, in which case they should feed them and clothe them in a befitting way; but no soul should be compelled beyond capacity, neither the mother made to suffer for the child nor the father for his offspring. The same holds good for the heir of the father (if he dies). If they wish to wean the child by mutual consent there is no harm. And if you wish to engage a wet nurse you may do so if you pay her an agreed amount as is customary. But fear God, and remember that God sees all that you do. 233 And those who are taken in death among you and leave wives behind - they, [the wives, shall] wait four months and ten [days]. And when they have fulfilled their term, then there is no blame upon you for what they do with themselves in an acceptable manner. And Allah is [fully] Acquainted with what you do. 234 And no blame is on you in that ye speak indirectly of your troth unto the said women or conceal it in your souls! Allah knoweth that ye will anon make mention of these women: but make no promises unto them in secret, except ye speak a reputable saying. And even resolve not on wedding-knot until the prescribed term hath attained its end; and know that Allah knoweth that which is in your souls, wherefore beware of Him, and know that Allah is Forgiving, Forbearing 235