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What is the ruling on a wife abandoning her husband due to his prolonged absence from home, his lack of concern for his children and the household needs, his criticism of the food, his moodiness, and his disrespect for her family?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

A wife abandoning her husband is prohibited if it is without just cause, but it is permissible in some cases, such as when he withholds her right to intimacy or financial support. The husband's actions mentioned contradict the good companionship enjoined in Allah's (SWT) saying: "And live with them in kindness," which includes fulfilling rights and refraining from harm. Moreover, his not sitting with his children contradicts good treatment towards them, as they are included in the Hadith: "The best of you is the best to his family." Treating the wife's family with kindness is also part of good companionship, as they are his in-laws. However, none of this justifies the wife abandoning her husband. Gentle understanding is advised, and seeking help from close relatives if necessary.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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