What is the right decision to make regarding a husband who abandoned the home eight months ago, does not provide for his wife and children, and established a relationship with another woman, knowing that he was previously religiously committed, and that he went as far as to beat and insult his wife?

Whoever relapses after righteousness and turns away from the path of truth has preferred the worldly life over the Hereafter. His situation resembles those mentioned in the words of Allah Almighty: (And recite to them the news of him to whom We gave Our signs, but he slipped away from them, so Satan pursued him, and he was among the deviators. And if We had willed, We could have elevated him thereby, but he adhered to the earth and followed his own desire. So his example is like that of the dog: if you chase him, he pants, or if you leave him, he pants. That is the example of the people who deny Our signs. So relate the stories that they may reflect.) [Al-A'raf: 175-176]. This man, in addition to neglecting his duty to his Lord, also neglected his duty to his family by not spending on them, as the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "It is enough sin for a man to neglect those whom he supports."

It is recommended to supplicate for him, offer advice and admonition, instill fear of Allah and His punishment, and open the door of repentance and hope, based on the words of Allah Almighty: (Say, "O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.") [Az-Zumar: 53]. If he does not listen to advice, then it is preferable to separate from him, and there is no good in remaining with him. It is desirable for the wife to seek a Khul' (divorce initiated by the wife) from him due to his abandonment of Allah's rights. It is permissible for her to claim back what she spent on herself and her child.