What is the ruling regarding a man who abandoned his first wife for 48 years, and did not deal justly between his two wives and children in spending, giving, and distributing properties? Do the heirs have the right to claim their share in the properties that the husband unjustly bestowed upon his second wife? Does the waiting period (iddah) apply to the abandoned wife? Is it permissible for the first wife to supplicate against those who wronged her?

The fundamental principle is the obligation of justice between wives regarding overnight stays and maintenance. It is permissible to show preference in gifts, provided the gifted item is legally acquired. The husband is obligated to provide for his children, and if he refrains, the wife is permitted to spend with the intention of recourse against him. Her maintenance and deferred dowry remain a debt upon him. A husband's abandonment of his wife does not nullify the marital bond, and she must observe the waiting period (iddah) of death if he dies before a divorce. It is permissible for the oppressed to supplicate against the oppressor, though forgiveness is better. It is advisable to resort to Sharia courts in matters of disputes such as maintenance and gifts.