What is guardianship (wilayah) in Islam, and what are the matters that do not require the guardian's approval to proceed with them?

In terminology, Wilayah (guardianship/authority) is summarized as the enforcement of a saying upon others. It is divided into:

1. General Wilayah: The authority to obligate others and enforce a disposition upon them without their delegation, encompassing matters of religion, worldly affairs, self, and wealth, with the aim of securing benefits and warding off evils from the Ummah (Muslim community).

2. Specific Wilayah: Two types:

Wilayah over wealth: A person's authority over their own wealth, which includes the mature, sane, and rational adult. A mature, rational adult woman has full wilayah over her wealth.

Wilayah over self: Authority over the affairs of a minor (young, insane, mentally deficient) concerning their person, such as marriage, education, medical treatment, and employment.

Wilayah over a mature, rational woman is limited to wilayah concerning marriage, and the husband's disciplinary wilayah.

Wilayah over a minor: Ends upon reaching puberty and rationality, but they remain under the care of their guardian. A female does not become independent after puberty and rationality; rather, her guardian continues to care for her until she marries.

Woman's travel: A woman does not travel except with a mahram (unmarriageable kin). However, her movement within the city does not require a mahram.

A mature, rational woman can freely dispose of her wealth and other matters, but she cannot marry herself off or travel except with a mahram.