Islam built the family structure on solid foundations of justice and kindness, defining rights and duties for each member to ensure life proceeds smoothly and with affection. The marital relationship is not one of rivalry or a power struggle, but a complementary one based on Allah's saying: 'And they (women) have rights similar to the rights against them, according to what is equitable.' This great Quranic principle establishes a golden rule for family balance, emphasizing that rights and duties are equivalent, even if they differ in nature to suit the inherent disposition of men and women.

This article aims to clarify these rights and duties in detail, away from misconceptions or traditions that may contradict the essence of Sharia. Often, one side is emphasized over the other, leading to an imbalance in the relationship. Understanding this delicate balance, established by the Creator, and applying it with a spirit of love and mercy is the first step toward achieving the tranquility and stability that Allah has promised spouses.

The Wife's Rights: Honor and Care

One of the most important rights of the wife over her husband is the right to maintenance (Nafaqah), which includes housing, food, clothing, and medical care, according to the husband's financial capacity. This right is established by the Quran, Sunnah, and scholarly consensus, and it is not a favor from the husband but a duty upon him, and a sign of his responsibility. Allah says: 'Let a man of wealth spend from his wealth.'

The second right, which is equally important, is kind treatment (Mu'asharah bil-Ma'ruf). This includes good conduct, kind words, patience with her, respecting her feelings and her family, overlooking some of her shortcomings, and involving her in family decision-making. The Prophet (peace be upon him) was the best of people to his family, and he is the role model in this, as he said: 'The best of you is the one who is best to his family, and I am the best of you to my family.' This right is the spiritual nourishment for the marital relationship.

Furthermore, it is her right that her husband protects her secrets, does not defame her or speak ill of her, and provides her with protection and security. These rights collectively make a woman feel honored and cherished in her home, which positively affects the stability of the entire family.

The Husband's Rights: Guardianship and Responsibility

Islam has given the man the role of guardianship (Qawamah) in the family, which is a guardianship of responsibility, care, and protection, not one of domination and tyranny. Allah says: 'Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has given the one more (strength) than the other, and because they support them from their means.' This guardianship means managing the family's affairs, protecting it, providing for it, and making final decisions after consultation for the family's benefit.

Corresponding to the right of guardianship is the duty of the wife to obey her husband in matters that do not involve disobedience to Allah. This obedience is not out of weakness or enslavement, but is the basis for organizing and stabilizing the family, and it applies to lawful matters that serve the family's best interests. It is also his right that she protects her chastity, his honor, and his property in his absence, and that she does not allow anyone whom he dislikes into his home, as this is one of the greatest pillars of trust and affection.