Title: Spousal Rights in Islam: Duties After Marriage According to Quran and Sunnah

Marriage in Islam is not just a social contract; it is a sacred bond endorsed by Allah (SWT) that comes with defined responsibilities for both husband and wife. Islam provides a balanced framework of mutual respect, love, and rights that ensure harmony in the household. Let us explore these rights and duties as outlined in the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Husband's Rights Upon His Wife

Obedience in What Is Right: A righteous wife is one who respects and obeys her husband in matters that are not sinful. The Prophet (SAW) said: "If a woman prays her five (daily prayers), fasts her month (Ramadan), guards her chastity, and obeys her husband, it will be said to her: Enter Paradise from whichever gate you wish." (Musnad Ahmad 1661)
Protection of Honor and Wealth: She is entrusted with the safeguarding of her husband's property and her own dignity in his absence. Allah says: "So righteous women are devoutly obedient, guarding in [the husband's] absence what Allah would have them guard." (Quran 4:34)
Respect and Gratitude: Expressing respect and appreciation strengthens the marital bond and brings tranquility to the relationship.
Home Management: While not obligated to house chores by Shariah, her cooperation in managing the household creates a peaceful environment.

Wife's Rights Upon Her Husband

Provision (Nafaqah): It is obligatory upon the husband to provide for his wife’s food, clothing, shelter, and basic needs. Allah says: “Let a man of wealth spend from his wealth, and he whose provision is restricted – let him spend from what Allah has given him.” (Quran 65:7)
Kind Treatment: The Prophet (SAW) said: “The best of you is the one who is best to his wife.” (Tirmidhi 3895)
Emotional and Physical Support: Islam encourages men to fulfill the emotional, physical, and psychological needs of their wives with compassion and care.
Fairness and Justice: Especially in the case of multiple wives, Islam commands absolute justice: “But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry only] one...” (Quran 4:3)

Mutual Love and Mercy

The Quran beautifully captures the essence of marriage: "And among His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy." (Quran 30:21)

This verse highlights that love (mawaddah) and mercy (rahmah) are the foundations of a successful marriage. Both spouses are garments for one another (Quran 2:187), symbolizing closeness, comfort, and protection.

Conclusion

When both husband and wife understand their roles and fulfill their duties sincerely, the result is a home filled with peace, respect, and barakah (blessings). Islam's guidance ensures that marriage is not just a relationship, but a path to personal growth, spiritual elevation, and ultimately, Jannah (Paradise).

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