In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praises are due to Allah alone, the Lord of the Worlds. May His peace and blessings be upon Prophet Muhammad (SAW), his household, and his companions. Brothers and sisters in Islam, our topic today is “Treat Your Wives Honourably”
O you Muslims, marriage is a sacred institution in Islam, a form of worship. A well-nourished and protected marriage contributes to a decent society.
Men’s responsibilities include kindness and respect: Islam teaches men to be kind and respectful to their wives, regardless of circumstances. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was very kind and respectful to his wives throughout his lifetime.
Always remember the good days. Recall the day you chose your wife and the sacrifices she made for you. Maybe she had other options but she opted for you.
The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) set the best examples for treating wives with love and respect. He married Aishat despite their age differences. But he was never unkind to her. They raced together. They played together. They discussed with each other about the same age.
You should avoid age discrimination. Age should not be a barrier to a harmonious marriage. Respect the union. Be kind and generous to her. She is your wife not your slave. She is your queen so treat her as one.
Concerning the consequences of mistreating one’s wife, Prophet Muhammad (SAW) warned against the dire consequences of mistreating wives in the Hereafter. In a narration, he said, those who mistreat their wives, who carry out injustice would be resurrected on judgement day with half body paralysed.
On women’s responsibilities Islam says it is your responsibility to respect your husbands. Women should respect their husbands, but this does not mean submission to abuse. Experience has shown that many women suffer abuse from their husbands. But they bear it because they do not want to leave the marriage.
O women, try your best to avoid disrespecting your husbands, as it is also a sin. Both husband and wife must be active in protecting the marriage institution. Both husband and wife should strive for open communication and understanding so as to achieve a decent home.
O brothers in Islam, mistreating or disrespecting one’s spouse invites Allah’s anger. We must make an effort to avoid Allah’s anger. Men should rise to their responsibilities and treat their wives with honour. Women should respect their husbands and avoid disrespectful behaviours.
We pray for Allah’s blessings and guidance for all married couples. O Allah, grant us Rahmah. Guide our women and children to be good ambassadors of Islam.
Imam Yusuf Aliyu Izelakhu writes from Ibaadur-Rahman Mosque, Lucky Way, Benin City.
