🤍 Character & conduct between spouses · #61
Should a husband consult his wife before making big decisions such as moving house or changing jobs?
Yes, consultation is the conduct of believers and a sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ, even though the husband is head of the family.
Allah praises those whose affairs are decided by consultation among themselves (ash-Shura 42:38), and told the Prophet ﷺ himself to consult his companions (Al ʿImran 3:159). At Hudaybiyah, when the companions were slow to obey his instruction, he went in to Umm Salama r.a. and followed her suggestion, and the problem was resolved (Sahih al-Bukhari 2731). Decisions such as moving to another state, quitting a job, buying a house, taking on large debts or marrying again directly affect the wife and children. Consulting does not mean the decision must be unanimous, but the spouse's view is heard and honestly weighed. Decisions made together are easier to carry together when tested. See Rights of husband & wife.
Allah praises those whose affairs are decided by consultation among themselves (ash-Shura 42:38), and told the Prophet ﷺ himself to consult his companions (Al ʿImran 3:159). At Hudaybiyah, when the companions were slow to obey his instruction, he went in to Umm Salama r.a. and followed her suggestion, and the problem was resolved (Sahih al-Bukhari 2731). Decisions such as moving to another state, quitting a job, buying a house, taking on large debts or marrying again directly affect the wife and children. Consulting does not mean the decision must be unanimous, but the spouse's view is heard and honestly weighed. Decisions made together are easier to carry together when tested. See Rights of husband & wife.
Sources
Surah asy-Syura 42:38Surah Ali 'Imran 3:159Sahih al-Bukhari 2731