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Fatwa CenterRuling on Seeking Divorce Due to a Husband’s Mistreatment
Question
Assalamu Alaikum. My husband since the beginning of marriage consistently neglects his duties and uses religion to dismiss my suffering. I was the sole provider, even through a difficult pregnancy. During pregnancy (C-section) and postpartum, I experienced severe physical, emotional, and spiritual harm, with no support or care. I feel unsafe and unprotected. Am I obligated to remain in this marriage, or is seeking separation permissible to prevent further harm to myself and my child?
Answer
All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad 
is His Slave and Messenger.
If your husband mistreats you and falls short in fulfilling your rights, then he is blameworthy for doing so. His conduct contradicts what Allah, the Most High, has commanded regarding kind treatment of one’s wife, as He the Most Glorified says(what means): {And live with them in kindness.} [Quran 4:19]
The scholars have stated that “living with them in kindness” is a comprehensive expression that includes fulfilling rights, good treatment, gentleness, and affection. These meanings become even more emphasized when a woman is in a state of weakness and in need of support and comfort.
A woman who is harmed by her husband is permitted to request divorce. However, we do not advise hastening toward it. While seeking divorce and separating from one’s husband may seem easy, bearing its consequences may be difficult. Instead of immediately requesting divorce, we advise striving for reconciliation and seeking assistance from wise and virtuous members of the Muslim community, including those responsible for Islamic centers and others. In addition, one should increase in supplication and ask Allah for guidance and rectification of the situation.
Allah Knows best.
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