🏡 Rights & responsibilities · #205

I am a wife who earns more than my husband. How can I protect his feelings and his role?

A bigger income does not change the husband's role as leader, and it is no excuse for belittling him. The family's maintenance (nafkah) remains the husband's obligation according to his means, while what you give is a contribution counted as charity, not a takeover of his duty. Appreciate his efforts and avoid mentioning your salary during disagreements. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever does not thank people has not thanked Allah” (Sunan Abu Dawud 4811). Make financial decisions together as a team, not according to who pays more. See rights of husband and wife.

Sources

Sunan Abu Dawud 4811 (sahih)

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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