⚖️ Polygyny: rulings & justice · #126

My wives have different numbers of children. Must their maintenance be the same amount?

Fairness in maintenance (nafkah) means meeting each household's needs properly, not necessarily handing over exactly the same sum of money. A home with more children usually needs different spending, and covering those real needs is part of being fair. The Prophet ﷺ allowed a wife to take sufficient maintenance: “Take what is sufficient for you and your children, in a fair manner” (Sahih al-Bukhari 5364). What is forbidden is leaving one household in hardship while the other lives in comfort without reason. Discuss each household's needs openly. If a dispute arises over the amount, refer to the Syariah Court. See two-household finances.

Sources

Sahih al-Bukhari 5364

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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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