A WIFE’S MAINTENANCE

 

FAJR REMINDER: A WIFE’S MAINTENANCE

Jumādā al-Ūlā 18, 1448 AH (29 October 2026)

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

In Islām, a husband’s responsibility to provide for his wife is not a favour he grants at his discretion; it is a fundamental obligation. This responsibility includes suitable accommodation, food, clothing, and other reasonable necessities, according to his financial means and what is considered fair.

Allāh (ﷻ) says:

“Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allāh has made one of them to excel the other, and because they spend (to support them) from their means…”

[Sūrah An-Nisā’ 4:34]

Sadly, some men overlook this important responsibility, forgetting that fulfilling their wives’ rights is a duty for which they will be accountable before Allāh. O husbands, providing for your families is not merely a worldly obligation; it can also become an act of worship when done sincerely for the sake of Allāh.

Abū Mas‘ūd (raḍiyallāhu ‘anhu) narrated that the Prophet (ﷺ) said:

“If a Muslim spends on his family seeking reward from Allāh, it is charity for him.”

[Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 5351; Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 1002]

Reflect on this! The money you spend on your wife’s food, clothing, and other legitimate needs can earn you rewards when you intend to please Allāh through your spending. Do not overlook this beautiful opportunity to turn ordinary household expenses into acts of worship.

Beyond fulfilling her basic needs, a husband who has the means should also seek to bring happiness to his wife through thoughtful gifts, kind gestures, and generosity. Spending quality time together, helping her maintain family ties, and easing her burdens can strengthen the marriage, provided these actions are consistent with Islamic principles and the circumstances of both spouses.

Allāh (ﷻ) commands:

“And live with them honourably.”

[Sūrah An-Nisā’ 4:19]

This command extends beyond financial provision. It encompasses kindness, consideration, respect, and good companionship.

Here are a few important reminders:

(1) Do not confuse obligation with generosity.
A husband must fulfil his wife’s reasonable needs according to Islamic teachings and his means. Luxurious gifts and additional treats may be expressions of generosity, but they do not replace the rights she is already entitled to.

(2) Spend according to your means.
Islām does not demand extravagance or spending beyond one’s capacity. However, genuine financial hardship should not become an excuse for neglecting responsibilities or withholding what is reasonably due.

(3) Seek reward through your spending.
What may appear to be an ordinary household expense can become an act of worship when accompanied by a sincere intention to please Allāh.

(4) Remember that love requires consideration.
Financial provision is essential, but kindness, attention, respect, and thoughtful gestures also help build a peaceful and healthy marriage.

Dear husbands, your wives should not be treated as burdens you reluctantly carry. Marriage is a trust, and fulfilling your wife’s rights is part of honouring that trust. Provide for her according to your means, fulfil your obligations sincerely, treat her with kindness, and hope for your reward from Allāh.

May Allāh (ﷻ) guide our husbands and wives to understand and fulfil their respective rights and responsibilities. May He bless our homes with love, mercy, tranquillity, and barakah, and grant us sincerity in all our affairs.

Āmīn, yā Rabbal-‘ālamīn.