Fruitful Living

Institution of Marriage in Islam (Pt.3)

Regarding sexual intimacy, it is also prohibited for a wife to demand money or gifts before allowing her husband to engage in sexual relations. Islam views this as a form of exploitation and sin. A marital relationship must be based on mutual love, respect, and affection rather than material gain.

Prohibition of sexual intercourse during menstruation

Islam has clear guidelines regarding sexual relations during certain times, particularly when a woman is menstruating. The Qur’an prohibits sexual intercourse during menstruation, stating:

“And they ask you about menstruation. Say: ‘It is harm, so keep away from women during menstruation. And do not approach them until they are pure. And when they have purified themselves, then come to them from where Allah has ordained for you. Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves’” (Qur’an 2:222).

This verse emphasises the importance of refraining from sexual activity during menstruation due to physical and spiritual reasons. However, all other forms of affection and companionship are allowed, and husbands should continue to care for their wives during this time with love and respect.

Islamic law encourages cleanliness and personal hygiene, especially in matters related to physical intimacy. After the menstruation period ends, it is recommended that the wife perform ghusl (ritual purification) before resuming sexual relations with her husband.

Rights of Children on Parents

Islam emphasises the rights of children on their parents, as marriage is the foundation of family life. Parents are obligated to provide their children with proper care, education, and moral guidance. The Qur’an states: “O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones…” (Qur’an 66:6).

This highlights the parents’ responsibility to raise their children with a strong sense of morality and faith. Children have the right to a good name, religious upbringing, and education, and they must be treated with fairness and love.

In Ghana’s law, there is Children’s Right Act, Act 560 (1989) which states among other things,

• Section 4, Right to Name, Nationality and secure a Birth Certificate for the child

• Section 6(3) (a&b), protection from neglect, provide good guidance, care etc

• Section 8(1&2), Right to education and wellbeing (medical care, diet, clothing, shelter).

How Do Married Couples Resolve Their Differences in Islam?

Islam provides clear guidelines for resolving marital conflicts in a just and compassionate manner.

The Qur’an instructs that in the event of marital discord, both parties should seek reconciliation:

“If you fear dissension between the two, send an arbitrator from his people and an arbitrator from her people. If they both desire reconciliation, Allah will cause it between them” (Qur’an 4:35).

The goal is always to preserve the marriage and restore harmony. If reconciliation is not possible, Islam permits divorce as a last resort, but it is considered the most disliked permissible act in the eyes of Allah (SWT).

Rewards of Marriage in Islam

Marriage in Islam is not only a social institution but also an act of worship that brings great rewards. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “When a man marries, he has fulfilled half of his religion, so let him fear Allah regarding the remaining half” (Bayhaqi, Shu’ab al-Iman).

Married couples are rewarded for fulfilling their marital responsibilities, showing kindness to each other, and raising righteous children who contribute positively to society.

Scholarly Thoughts About Marriage in Islam

Islamic scholars, such as Imam Al-Ghazali, have discussed marriage as a means of controlling desires and fulfilling one’s spiritual obligations. Modern scholars like Sheikh Yusuf Qaradawi also stress the importance of mutual respect and understanding in marriage, ensuring that both partners can grow spiritually and emotionally within the marriage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, marriage in Islam is a divinely ordained relationship based on mutual love, respect, and responsibility. By following the guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah, and observing the legal frameworks in place, such as Ghana’s Mohammedan Ordinance, we can establish strong and harmonious marriages that contribute to the moral and spiritual development of society. May Allah (SWT) guide us to fulfill our marital responsibilities with sincerity and love.

The Writer is Kpone Katamanso Municipal Chief Imam, Democracy and Governance Law Student, UCC, Member of Ghana National Association of Certified Counsellors Certified by Ghana Psychology Council

References:

1.Qur’an, Surah Ar-Rum (30:21)

2.Qur’an, Surah An-Nisa (4:34, 4:4, 4:19, 4:35)

3.Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:187, 2:221, 2:222, 2:223)

4.Qur’an, Surah At-Tahrim (66:6)

5.Ibn Majah, Hadith 1845, 1905

6.Tirmidhi, Hadith 1162, 1084

7.Bukhari, Hadith 5090

8.Children’s Right Act, Act 560 (1989)

9.Bayhaqi, Shu’ab al-Iman

10.Al-Ghazali, Ihya Ulum al-Din

11.Qaradawi, The Lawful and Prohibited in Islam

Fruitful Living

Polygamy in Islam (Part 2)

CONDITIONS for Polygamy in Islam

Islamic law sets forth clear conditions that must be met for polygamy to be practiced. These conditions aim to protect the rights and wellbeing of all involved.

Justice among wives: The foremost requirement is that a husband must be able to treat each wife with fairness and justice. Allah (SWT) warns:

“But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry only] one…” (Qur’an 4:3).

Justice here encompasses equal financial provision, time, and emotional support. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Whoever has two wives and inclines entirely towards one of them, he will come on the Day of Resurrection with half of his body leaning” (Abu Dawud, 2133).

This Hadith underscores the importance of avoiding favouritism, highlighting the weight of responsibility a man assumes in a polygamous marriage.

Financial capability: A husband must possess the means to adequately support each wife. Allah (SWT) states in the Qur’an:

“Men are the protectors and maintainers of women because Allah has made one of them to excel the other and because they spend out of their property…” (Qur’an 4:34).

Financial capability is essential to ensure that all wives and children are properly cared for.

Creating an environment of mutual respect and consent: While not obligatory, it is encouraged for the husband to seek the consent of his first wife before entering into a new marriage. The example of the Prophet (PBUH) shows that he would always be open and communicative, addressing his wives’ concerns and upholding respect among them.

Responsibility of a Husband in a Polygamous Marriage

A husband in a polygamous marriage has immense responsibility, which requires wisdom, patience, and faith.

Providing equal time and resources: Each wife is entitled to equal time, material provision, and attention. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would allocate his time fairly, ensuring that each wife felt valued and respected.

Aisha (RA) narrated that he would seek permission before spending extra time with any wife, even in times of illness, to demonstrate his commitment to fairness.

Upholding good character and compassion: The Prophet (PBUH) emphasised kindness, saying, “The best of you are those who are best to their families” (Tirmidhi, 3895). A husband in a polygamous marriage must strive to uphold this ideal by displaying kindness and understanding toward all his wives.

Example of the Sahaba: The companions of the Prophet (PBUH) also practiced polygamy with compassion and integrity. Many of the Sahaba married multiple wives, ensuring that each of their wives was cared for, both financially and emotionally. Their approach reflected their commitment to fulfilling their responsibilities fairly, following the example of the Prophet (PBUH).

(…To be continued)

By Imam Alhaji Saeed Abdulai, 1BN – Michel Camp

Fruitful Living

Cultivating and maintaining Godly relationships (Part 1)

As christains let’s continue to love one another

Imam Alhaji Saeed Abdulai, the Author

“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”– John 13:34-35 (NIV)

FROM the very beginning, God designed us not to walk through life alone, but to be connected—first to Him, and then to one another. Relationships are the framework of our existence, and the quality of these relationships directly impacts our spiritual, emotional, and even physical wellbeing. But in a world that often distorts the meaning of true connection, we face a challenge: How do we build and maintain relationships that reflect God’s heart?

Today, we will explore the concept of Godly relationships—what they are, why they matter, and how we can cultivate and sustain them in every area of our lives. Whether in friendships, family ties, professional circles, or mentorships, our relationships are meant to be living testimonies of God’s love and grace. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in a way that sets us apart, and one of the clearest ways we can do that is through how we relate to others. Jesus Himself said that it is by our love for one another that the world will know we are His disciples (John 13:35).

WHAT GODLY RELATIONSHIPS MEAN

Godly relationships go beyond surface connections; they are rooted in;

•love,

•service,

•forgiveness,

•and the desire to see others grow in their relationship with God.

Relationships, in all their forms, are central to the human experience. Whether within the family, friendships, work relationships, or romantic partnerships, how we connect with others reveals much about who we are and what we value.

For believers in Christ, relationships are not merely social contracts or exchanges of convenience; they are divine assignments—opportunities to manifest God’s love and character to a world in desperate need of true connection.

Godly relationships are built on;

•Love,

•Trust,

•Integrity,

•and Purpose.

They reflect God’s nature and bring healing, encouragement, and accountability. More importantly, they demonstrate to the world the essence of God’s kingdom, where love, humility, and service to others are paramount. Cultivating and maintaining such relationships is a lifelong endeavour that requires wisdom, patience, and reliance on God’s grace.

The Foundation of Godly Relationships

I want us to dive into several key points that will help us understand what godly relationships look like and how we can nurture them.

1. Godly Relationships Are Founded on Christlike Love

The first and most important point is that Godly relationships are rooted in Christlike love. This is the foundation upon which all other aspects of a relationship are built. When we talk about Christlike love, we refer to the sacrificial, selfless love that Jesus demonstrated. It’s a love that goes beyond emotions and convenience—it is a commitment to care for others even when it’s difficult.

Jesus said in John 13:34- 35, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Christlike love is our testimony to the world. People don’t just see our faith by what we say, but by how we love.

This love is patient, kind, forgiving, and always seeks the good of the other person, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 13.