| Answer:
In such a case, the wife’s conscience and her own circumstances are the
best judge in determining whether the severing of the marital knot is the only
viable option. For example, some women may be blamed for not bearing children,
even without the fault being theirs. If the lady herself cannot bear the thought
of living a life without bearing own children, due to an impotent husband, then
she is best equipped to gauge the pros and cons of keeping her marriage in tact.
She must be cautious and careful in her decision. There may be many good things
about her marriage, which may not be worthy of sacrifice. There may be kids
already who would be best nurtured under a healthy marriage. Also, the prospects
of second marriages for women, especially in Pakistani society for example, are
very bleak, and most women end up settling with suitors, which entails making
unusual compromises.
Having said that, if the husband is impotent, and a woman faces grave problems
as a result, she has the right to seek divorce. She must assess her situation
solemnly. One must remember that Allah has given the woman the right to seek a
divorce, and if the situation calls for it, she can do so. It depends on her
sensible discretion.
|