I thought that as well. Didn’t think it was a requirement.
This may seem like a stupid question. But WHY does the subsequent marriage have to be consummated in order for the woman to return to her ex husband?
It is because a marriage isn’t considered valid until it is consummated? Or is it because this consummation is to be some sort of admonishment to the ex husband for giving a divorce (as the idea of your wife sleeping with another man is unsavory for most men).
^But then again…it would be unsavory for the woman as well. This consummation, (especially if she truly doesn’t want to be with the second husband and only married him to return to the ex husband)…must especially hurt/shame the woman…almost reducing herself to an object.
And what if she sleeps with the second husband…who gives her talaq so she can go back to her ex…and then ex has a change of heart AGAIN…and doesn’t want her back??? So, she’s left nowhere.
Why go back to your ex anyway? I imagine the chances of the marriage working out the second time are slim.