Conclusion

Marriage relations between husband and wife in Islam are built upon ideals of love, mutual respect and mercy. Women are respected and loved as wives, daughters and in all other roles. The Prophet said: “He is not from us who does not have mercy on the young nor knows the honor the elder deserve.” (Ibn Hibban #3377)

In Islam there is no ‘battle of the sexes’; both men and women are created to complement each other; each has their distinct set of qualities and traits. Men have deficient qualities within their character which are rendered adequate through a wife. The same holds true for a woman, this is why Islam has obligated specific duties upon women that would not overburden her; the same holds true for men. When this balance is managed properly the result would be equilibrium of harmony. Allah, the Exalted, says: “And Allah has made for you from yourselves mates and has made for you from your mates sons and grandchildren and has provided for you from the good things. Then in falsehood do they believe and in the favor of Allah they disbelieve?” (16:72)

When Islamic law dictates that certain things are unlawful for a man, but lawful for a woman or vice versa this is based on God’s infinite knowledge of the emotional, social, psychological build of both sexes. It is wrong that one be obligated to do something that they cannot handle! This scenario is similar to a car that is designed to run on fuel, but instead it has been filled with diesel; the car will not function properly nor move forward!

Passion, love, romance are matters that ultimately are derived from the teachings of Prophet Muhamamd. It is from him that we learn these lofty manners and ethical ideals. These matters are not theory that can never translate into practice; in reality, these mannerisms are very easily applied and upheld. If people were to follow the example of Prophet Muhammad this would alleviate the problems people face all over the world including marital problems. The rights of both spouses have been outlined within the framework of Islamic Law. When one upholds these teachings they are in fact performing an act of worship that is highly rewarding in the sight of God.

As for what may occur between some Muslim families in relation to marital problems, it is solely based on the fact that they are not following the example of Prophet Muhammad.