| The period of separation that must be observed before a divorce can be granted under Bahá'í law: 'The purpose of the year of waiting is to attempt the saving of a marital relationship which was originally accepted as valid in the eyes of the Bahá'ís, and is now in jeopardy.'1 |
| A couple wishing a divorce must inform the spiritual assembly which 'has the duty of trying to reconcile the parties before setting the date for the beginning of the year of patience. If no reconciliation is possible, and actual repugnance is found to exist between the parties, then the Assembly may record a date which is the beginning of the year of patience. During the ensuing year, it is highly desirable that, if the opportunity arises, further efforts at reconciliation should be made. The Assembly also has the duty to see that just arrangements are made for the support of dependants during the year of patience. If, at the end of the year, no reconciliation is possible, then the Assembly may grant the Bahá'í divorce.'2 |
| According to the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, 'if at any time during the waiting period affection should recur, the marriage tie is valid'.3 |
| [BD 243] |
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