What is the prescribed sequence of measures a husband must take upon suspecting wifely disobedience?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of the Wedding Feast

Book 37 · Issue 3 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

When signs of disobedience appear, the husband must first admonish her, reminding her of the fear of God, the rights and obedience owed to him ordained by God, the sin incurred by disobedience, the forfeiture of her rights (like maintenance and clothing), and the permissibility of beating and desertion. This is based on the statement of God, "As to those from whom you fear rebellion, admonish them" (Quran 4:34). If she manifests disobedience by refusing cohabitation or leaving the home without permission, he may then forsake her in the sleeping place, according to the decree, "and forsake them in their beds" (Quran 4:34). Ibn Abbas interpreted this as not sharing the same bed.

Supporting text

Forsaking in speech is not permissible for more than three days, based on the Hadith narrated by Abu Hurairah where the Prophet, peace be upon him, stated, "It is not lawful for a Muslim to shun his brother for more than three days."