What is the required time for paying the wife's maintenance (Nafaqah)?

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Payment of the wife's maintenance is obligatory at the beginning of the day after the sun has risen, as this marks the first time of need. Agreement between the spouses to delay this payment is permissible because the right belongs to the wife, and her consent validates the delay, similar to a debt. Agreement to pay maintenance in advance or in arrears for a period such as a year, a month, or any other duration is also valid, as the right is mutual between them.