MARRIAGE AND PARTNERSHIP

By

Ibn Abdillah As-sudaisiy Al-Iloori

The question of whether marriage is a partnership or not actually depends on the context of usage. If what is meant by "partner" is "companion", then marriage is partnership because marriage is companionship. Partnership doesn't necessarily mean "equality ". It depends on the context. In a marriage, a man can't do it alone and a woman can't do it alone. They both need each other's input to have a successful marriage. 

But if what is meant by "partner" is that the couple are on the same level without a leader, that is wrong usage. The man is the leader and he must be obeyed as long as his instructions are justifiable under the sharī'ah. His authority must be respected (Qur'ān 4: 34).

I have seen some women using the word "partner" recklessly to mean that their husbands can't command them to do something even if it is justifiable under the sharī'ah. They want to be left alone to do whatever they like. For instance, a wife once told her husband he doesn't have the right to know all her movements. It is not acceptable for a woman to think like this. 

Then, I have seen some men talking or acting as if their wives are their slaves who can be treated anyhow they like. Even if their rights are denied, they must not complain reasonably. This is bondage, not marriage.

The sharī'ah is a balanced law. It places the man above the woman and promotes mutual respect for a successful union.

May Allāh guide us aright.

COMING SOON IN SHA ALLĀH