They question thee (O Muhammad) concerning menstruation. Say: It is an illness, so let women alone at such times and go not in unto them till they are cleansed. And when they have purified themselves, then go in unto them as Allah hath enjoined upon you. Truly Allah loveth those who turn unto Him, and loveth those who have a care for cleanness. 222 Your wives are your tilth; go, then, unto your tilth as you may desire, but first provide something for your souls, and remain conscious of God, and know that you are destined to meet Him. And give glad tidings unto those who believe. 223 And make not Allah's (Name) an excuse in your oaths against your doing good and acting piously, and making peace among mankind. And Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower (i.e. do not swear much and if you have sworn against doing something good then give an expiation for the oath and do good). 224 Allah will not take you to task for that which is unintentional in your oaths. But He will take you to task for that which your hearts have garnered. Allah is Forgiving, Clement. 225 For those who swear off from their wives is a awaiting of four months; then if they go back, verily Allah is Forgiving, Merciful. 226 But if their intention is firm for divorce, Allah heareth and knoweth all things. 227 And the divorced women shall keep themselves in waiting for three courses nor is it allowed unto them that they should hide that which Allah hath created in their wombs, if they believe in Allah and the Last Day. And their husbands are more entitled to their restorations during the same, if they desire rectification. Unto women is due likes that which is due from women reputably. And for men is a degree over them. And Allah is Mighty, Wise. 228