Is it permissible to seek divorce from a religious and committed husband if the wife cannot tolerate living with him due to his instability in work or location, and her feeling of frustration and desire to end the relationship, and would that be considered an injustice to the children?
It is permissible for a woman to request a divorce due to clear harm, but it is better to be patient and strive for reconciliation, as commanded by Islamic law. Allah Almighty said: "And 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 agreement between them." (Quran 4:35) And He said: "And if a woman fears from her husband defiance or desertion, there is no sin upon them if they make terms of settlement between them - and settlement is best." (Quran 4:128) Requesting a divorce to alleviate harm is not an injustice to the children if their best interest is considered. The husband must fulfill his duties towards his wife and children, and it is forbidden for him to neglect that; "It is enough sin for a man to neglect those whom he supports." It is not permissible for a man to be absent from his wife for more than six months except for an excuse. And the wife should strive for chastity, Allah Almighty said: "And whoever fears Allah - He will make for him a way out." (Quran 65:2)
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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