Q: Is one Talaaq sufficient to end the marriage or is it necessary for the husband to give three?

A: Talaaq is something which is abhorred in the Shariah and should only be resorted to when all else fails. Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) has stated: “The worst of the permitted things in the sight of Allah is Talaaq (divorce). (Sunan Abi Dawood #2178, Sunan ibnu Majah #2018)

Nevertheless the moment the words of Talaaq or divorce are uttered the Talaaq becomes effective. Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) has stated: “Three things are serious whether are they are said seriously or in jest: Nikaah, Talaaq and reconciliation.” (Sunan Abi Dawood #2194, Sunanut Tirmizi #1184, Sunan Ibnu Majah # 2039, Al Mustadrak lil Haakim #2800)

Therefore one Talaaq is sufficient to end the marriage. In fact, only one Talaaq should be issued at a time, as this leaves room for possible reconciliation in the future. Giving three divorces at once is a great sin and causes the marriage to be absolutely terminated, with no room for reconciliation.

And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
 
Was Salaam

M.D. Mangera (Mufti)                Shafiq Jakhura (Mufti)     
Fatwa Dept.                                  Fatwa Dept.