In Islam, the rights of wives over their husbands are clearly outlined to ensure mutual respect, love, and fairness in marital relationships. These rights are derived from the Quran and Sunnah and aim to establish justice, harmony, and well-being within the family.

Here are the key rights of wives in Islam which are the basic obligations on the husbands.  The prophet (peace be upon him) treated his wives the best. Spouses should strive toward excellence in relationships, not mere basic obligations to encourage love, cooperation, and mercy.

1. Financial Maintenance (Nafaqah)

The husband is obligated to provide for his wife’s basic needs, including:

• Food: Adequate and suitable nourishment.
• Clothing: Appropriate attire for her comfort and modesty.
• Shelter: A safe and secure place to live. This responsibility exists regardless of the wife’s wealth or whether she works.

2. Fair Treatment

If the husband has more than one wife, he must treat them all fairly and equally in terms of:

• Time spent with each wife.
• Financial support and provision.
• Emotional attention and care.

Allah commands fairness in the Quran:

“If you fear that you will not deal justly, then [marry only] one…” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:3).

3. Kindness and Good Treatment

A husband must treat his wife with love, kindness, and respect, including the following:

• Not cursing at her, insulting her, calling her names.
• Not isolating her from him or her family.
• Not abusing her in any kind of way which is inclusive of a multitude of ways.

The Quran emphasizes this:

“…And live with them in kindness…” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:19).
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also said:
“The best of you is the best to his family, and I am the best among you to my family.” (Tirmidhi).

 

4. Protection

The husband is responsible for protecting his wife physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This includes:

• Shielding her from harm.
• Safeguarding her honor and dignity.
• Supporting her spiritual growth and guiding her in matters of religion.

5. Emotional Support

The husband should provide emotional companionship and support. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) demonstrated this through his gentle and affectionate behavior toward his wives, such as:

• Listening to them attentively.
• Sharing moments of joy and understanding their concerns.
• Enjoying together hobbies and halal entertainment

6. Sexual Rights

The husband is obligated to fulfill his wife’s sexual needs in a halal (permissible) manner. Mutual satisfaction and consent are essential in marital relations.

7. Respecting Her Individuality

A wife has the right to:

• Retain her personal property and wealth.
• Make decisions about her career or education, as long as they align with Islamic principles.
• Not using or taking even a cent of her money without her permission and wishes, even if for expenses for the home as this is not her responsibility.
• Be consulted in matters affecting the family or her well-being.

8. Religious Freedom and Education

The husband must allow and encourage his wife to practice her religion, including:

• Performing prayers (Salah), fasting, and other acts of worship.
• Gaining Islamic knowledge and participating in religious activities.

9. Not Overburdening Her

The husband should not impose unreasonable demands or burdens on his wife, whether in household duties or other aspects of life. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) shared household responsibilities to ease the workload on his wives.

• Hiring household help if he can afford.
• Participating in household chores when the husband is home.

10. Justice in Divorce

If divorce occurs, the husband must:

• Follow the Islamic process of divorce with fairness and dignity.
• Provide for her during the waiting period (iddah).
• Pay her any due dowry (mahr) if it has not been given.

Summary

The rights of wives in Islam are comprehensive, emphasizing love, respect, and fairness. These rights aim to create a balanced and harmonious relationship where both spouses contribute to the well-being of the family while adhering to Islamic principles.