Understanding the rights of husband in Islam
In Islam, a husband has certain rights that are expected to be respected and upheld by his wife, as outlined in the Quran and Hadith.
Right to Respect and Obedience
In Islam, a wife is expected to respect and obey her husband in matters that are permissible and not sinful. Obedience is seen as part of maintaining harmony in the family structure.
Qur’an:
“Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has given one more (strength) than the other, and because they support them from their means…”
(Surah An-Nisā’ 4:34)
Hadith:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“If a woman prays her five (daily prayers), fasts her month (Ramadan), guards her chastity, and obeys her husband, it will be said to her: ‘Enter Paradise from whichever gate you wish.’”
(Ibn Hibban, Hadith 4163)
2. Right to Intimacy
The husband has a right to lawful intimacy, and the wife is encouraged to respond positively to his needs unless she has a valid reason.
Hadith:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“When a man calls his wife to his bed and she refuses, and he spends the night angry with her, the angels curse her until morning.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 3237; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1436)
READ ALSO: Honoring Parents in Islam: A sacred duty beyond worship
3. Right to Be Treated with Respect and Kindness
While obedience is part of the marital relationship, it must be paired with mutual kindness and respect.
Qur’an:
“…And live with them in kindness. For if you dislike them—perhaps you dislike something through which Allah brings much good.”
(Surah An-Nisā’ 4:19)
4. Right to Protection of His Property and Honour
A wife should safeguard her husband’s property and honor in his absence.
Qur’an:
“…Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient, guarding in [the husband’s] absence what Allah would have them guard…”
(Surah An-Nisā’ 4:34)
Hadith:
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:
“The best of women is she who, if you look at her, she pleases you; if you command her, she obeys you; and if you are absent, she protects you in your property and in herself.”
(Sunan an-Nasa’i, Hadith 3231)
READ ALSO: Peace in Islam: A core principle of the faith
5. Right to Be the Leader of the Family
Islam designates the husband as the head of the household, responsible for leadership and decision-making, as well as providing for the family.
Qur’an:
“Men are the protectors and maintainers of women…”
(Surah An-Nisā’ 4:34)
Hadith:
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Every one of you is a shepherd, and every one of you will be asked about his flock. The man is the shepherd of his family and is responsible for them…”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 893; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1829)
In Islam, the husband’s rights are balanced with the wife’s rights. He is given authority but also the duty to provide, protect, and treat his wife with compassion. This mutual responsibility ensures harmony in the marital relationship.
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