Dealing with a Difficult Husband: Does Absence or Threats End the Marriage?

Understanding the Rights and Options of a Wife in a Troubled Marriage

Question: A sister has asked a question: Her husband causes her distress, tells her to go away, repeatedly threatens to divorce her, locks the door so she cannot enter the house, and if he goes away for four months, does not inquire about her or provide for her. In such a situation, does the marriage end? And if he says in his heart that he will divorce her, does that count as a divorce? What should the woman do in such a situation?

Answer: If a sister’s husband causes her distress, isolates himself in a separate room, goes away for four months without any contact, and does not provide for her basic needs, the marriage remains intact. The husband’s absence or failure to provide does not end the marriage. However, the husband’s behavior is wrong according to Shariah, and he is sinful and accountable before Allah.

In such a situation, the wife should seek mediation through knowledgeable and just individuals to resolve the issue. If the problem is resolved, that is good. If not, and the wife cannot bear the situation, she has the right to seek divorce or khula (separation). However, if she can be patient, she will be rewarded by Allah.

It is also important to note that if the husband says things like “go away from the house” or “I will divorce you,” these statements do not constitute a divorce.

✍ Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi (may Allah protect him)

❪Jeddah Dawah Center, Al-Salamah – Saudi Arabia❫