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The etiquettes that a Muslim should observe after nullifying the engagement

Question

What are the conditions of nullifying one's engagement?

Answer

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger. We ask Allaah to exalt his mention as well as that of his family and all his companions.

There are no special conditions for nullifying an engagement apart from the general conditions in Islam, like having a good behaviour and conduct with people. For instance one should not inform other people of any deficiency, if any, that he sees in his fiancée, or any matter that would turn away those who propose to marry her. So it is not permissible for him to talk about it unless one asks his advice, as the Prophet  sallallaahu  `alayhi  wa  sallam ( may  Allaah exalt his mention ) said clarifying the right of a Muslim on his brother: ''…and if he seeks your advice, you should advise him…'' [Muslim] One should also observe other morals that are advocated in our religion.

An engagement is nothing but a promise of marriage and it is not a contract, so each party may nullify the engagement whenever he/she wishes. And whenever the engagement is nullified, there are no effects or rights on the other party.

Allaah Knows best.

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