Q 4: A dispute arose between a wife and her husband. The wife took her possessions and went to her father's house. She refuses to return to her husband's house unless he buys her this and that. Is the husband obligated to do what she wants? What is the ruling on such an act?

A: The basic principle of Islamic marriage is that each partner has to treat the other kindly. (Part No. 19; Page No. 252) Allah (Exalted be He) says: ...and live with them honourably. He (Exalted be He) also says: And they (women) have rights (over their husbands as regards living expenses) similar (to those of their husbands) over them (as regards obedience and respect) according to what is reasonable A wife is not permitted to violate the rights of obedience and kind treatment that the husband has over her, and which are entailed by the marriage contract, unless she has a Shar`y (Islamically lawful) reason that allows her to do so. When she disobeys her husband with no Shar`y reason and stipulates that he should buy her this and that in order for her to return, she is sinful. Each partner has to treat the other with kindness. Some attempts should be made to bring about reconciliation between them. If these attempts fail, the court will be a better resort and its decisions would resolve the matter in sha'a Allah (if Allah wills). May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.