Is it permissible for a wife who is remiss in her duties towards her husband, children, and home to have a maid?
It is necessary to dispense with a maid whenever possible, to avoid pitfalls and corruptions that vary according to the family's circumstances, including matters of faith, chastity, the presence of young men, and the maid's own situation. It is permissible to bring a maid when there is a genuine need, such as the wife's illness, pregnancy, or weakness, provided that a committed Muslim woman is chosen, and Sharia-compliant regulations are observed. However, if the reason is the wife's negligence, the causes of this negligence must be examined. The husband might be exaggerating, or the wife might be pregnant, in which case it is permissible to bring a maid for a temporary reason. But if the negligence stems from a lack of responsibility, then a maid will only increase idleness, and the wife must strive to overcome this negligence.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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