Am I obligated to divorce my irreligious wife, despite the presence of children, for fear of sin, or does my remaining with her, patiently enduring her harm for the sake of the children, absolve me of sin, taking into account the words of the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him: "All of you are guardians and are responsible for your subjects"?
If you divorce your wife due to her ill-treatment and lack of religious commitment, there is no sin upon you, and you are not being unjust to your children. However, if the mother is not trustworthy with the children, she has no right to custody, and the Shariah judge will decide on this matter. It is advised not to hasten to divorce and to try to reform the wife. If she becomes righteous, then keep her. If she does not, then separate from her and strive in raising your children. If you do not divorce her despite her neglecting duties and committing forbidden acts, this is permissible, though disliked. It is recommended in cases where the wife neglects her obligatory duties towards Allah which cannot be forced upon her.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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