Husband Forcing Wife to Work Outside the Home

By Mufti Shafiq Jakura and Mufti M.D. Mangera
Posted: 18 Rabi at-Thani 1435, 18 February 2014

Q.): I have been married for six years.  I soon realized that my husband is greedy and money minded. He forced me to continue with my job threatening with divorce if I did not. My job is too hectic, I generally come back home late in the evening 7 or 8pm. I feel guilty for my two children who are neglected. I am on blood thinner for life time after my second child birth. I can't give time to my children and my health as well.  Can I refuse to work?

A.) You have a right to remain at home. He is sinful if he asks you to leave home. It is not permissible for you to obey him if he asks you to go out to work. If he divorces then it is a compounded sin upon his head. We advise that you raise this matter with senior members of the family who could help you to resolve this matter in an amicable manner.

And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best