And when you divorce women, and they have come to the end of their waiting-term, hinder them not from marrying other men if they have agreed with each other in a fair manner. This is an admonition unto every one of you who believes in God and the Last Day; it is the most virtuous [way] for you, and the cleanest. And God knows, whereas you do not know. 232 ۞ And mothers shall suckle their children two whole years; this is for him who intendeth that he shall complete the suckling, and on him to whom the child is born is their provision and clothing reputably; not a soul is tasked except according to its capacity. Neither shall a mother be hurt because of her child nor shall he to whom the child is born because of his child; and on the heir shall devolve the like thereof. Then if the twain desire weaning by agreement between them and mutual counsel, on the twain is no blame. And if ye desire to give your children out for suckling, on you is no blame when ye hand over that which ye had agreed to give her reputably. And fear Allah, and know that of that which ye work Allah is the Beholder. 233 And as for those of you who die and leave wives behind, they shall keep themselves in waiting for four months and ten days. Then when they have attained their period, no blame there is on you for that which they do with themselves reputably. And of that which ye work Allah is aware. 234 There is no blame on you if ye make an offer of betrothal or hold it in your hearts. Allah knows that ye cherish them in your hearts: But do not make a secret contract with them except in terms Honourable, nor resolve on the tie of marriage till the term prescribed is fulfilled. And know that Allah Knoweth what is in your hearts, and take heed of Him; and know that Allah is Oft-forgiving, Most Forbearing. 235