Fruitful Living
Jumma Khutbah: ‘Rights and Responsibilities in Marriage under Islamic and Ghanaian Law’
Praising Allah and Sending Salutations on the Prophet (PBUH):
Alhamdulillah, all praise is due to Allah, the Most Merciful, the All- Wise, Who created us in pairs so we may find tranquility in one another. We send blessings and peace upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who has provided us with the best guidance for our lives, including the sacred institution of marriage.
Introduction
Servants of Allah, today’s khutbah is dedicated to the institution of marriage in Islam Part 2—an institution that goes beyond a mere contract. Marriage is a spiritual union and a path through which we fulfill half of our faith. It fosters unity, provides solace, and builds the foundation for a righteous family and society. The renowned scholars, Sheikh Abdul Aziz Ibn Baz (RA) and Muhammad Ibn Salih al-Uthaymeen (RA), underscore the importance of marriage in Islam, emphasising that it protects one’s faith, upholds moral boundaries, and nurtures family values. As Sheikh Ibn Baz rightly observed, “Marriage is not only a safeguard for one’s soul but also a fortress for the family and society.”
Today, we will explore the rights and responsibilities in marriage, examine the importance of consent, and discuss the role of legal frameworks in Ghana that protect and honor these principles, ensuring that marriage in Islam is truly a pillar of faith.
Islamic Teachings on Spousal Rights: Insights from Surah Al-Baqarah
Servants of Allah, the Qur’an provides comprehensive guidance on the roles and responsibilities of spouses. In Surah Al-Baqarah, Allah (SWT) sets forth principles to create a balanced relationship based on kindness and justice. Allah states:
“And mothers may breastfeed their children two complete years for whoever wishes to complete the nursing [period]. Upon the father is their provision and their clothing according to what is acceptable. No person is charged with more than his capacity…” (Qur’an 2:233).
This verse emphasises that both parents share responsibilities in raising children. While the mother cares for the child through nursing, the father’s role is to provide financial support. This mutual responsibility fosters a supportive family environment where both parents contribute to the child’s well-being.
Moreover, Sheikh Al-Uthaymeen explained that these roles highlight Islam’s balanced approach to family life, assigning each spouse responsibilities that cater to their unique strengths, yet allowing flexibility for circumstances. In the case where either spouse is unable to fulfill their role, mutual support and understanding are encouraged to uphold family harmony.
The Farewell Sermon: The Prophet’s (PBUH) Guidance on Spousal Rights
In the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Farewell Sermon delivered during his last pilgrimage, he spoke about the essential rights and duties of spouses, urging mutual respect and compassion:
“O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under Allah’s trust and with His permission. So, treat them with kindness and respect.”
The Prophet (PBUH) further warned men, saying, “Fear Allah in respect of women, for you have taken them [in marriage] with the trust of Allah.” He reminded that on the Day of Judgment, Allah would hold men accountable for their treatment of their wives. This reminder is profound, highlighting that marriage is a trust from Allah, and mistreatment or neglect of this responsibility will lead to accountability before Allah.
By Imam Alhaji Saeed Abdulai – 1BN Michel Camp, Tema