Q 2: Is it permissible for a woman to offer Qiyam-ul-Layl (optional Prayer at night) and Tahajjud (optional late night Prayer) without her husband's permission when he is present? Bear in mind that she only offers them (Part No. 19; Page No. 224) after her husband is asleep. She also took his permission once to observe supererogatory Sawm (fasting), and he agreed and told her she can perform any act of religious devotion. Should she take his permission again, or is the first time enough?

A: Firstly, a woman should keep up Qiyam-ul-Layl and encourage her husband to keep it up. It is related by Abu Dawud and Al-Nasa'y that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "May Allah show mercy to a man who wakes up at night, offers Prayers, and wakes his wife up. And if she refuses to wake up, he sprinkles water on her face. May Allah show mercy to a woman who wakes up at night, offers Prayers, and wakes her husband up. And if he refuses to wake up, she sprinkles water on his face." Secondly, it is not permissible for a woman to observe supererogatory Sawm while her husband is present except with his permission. It is authentically related that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “No woman should observe Sawm when her spouse is present (in the house) but with his permission." If he gives her permission, she may observe Sawm. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.