Does the husband take precedence over the women of the deceased's family, or do the women take precedence over the husband?

The questioner : Regarding a matter that passed through the house, Shaykh, concerning the washing of the wife: does the husband take precedence over the women of the deceased's family, or do the women take precedence over the husband?

The Shaykh : The women take precedence over the husband, unless the wife had made a will to that effect. Or unless we do not find anyone who is skilled in the proper method. Yes, that is correct.

The questioner : Let us hear from our Shaykh. Our Shaykh was clear.

The Shaykh : Yes, the women take precedence. The women take precedence, unless the wife had made a will that no one should wash her except her husband, or if there are women who do not know how to perform the washing,

The questioner : What is the position regarding the hadith of Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) about "If we had faced the beginning of our matter, we would have turned away from its end"? The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) did not wash anyone except his wives. The saying of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) to Aisha means: What harm is there if I die and I wash you?

The Shaykh : Yes. It is said that Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) intended to clarify the permissibility. And that there is no harm in a woman washing her husband. As for the saying of the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), "If I die before you, I will wash you," they intended to show his love for her and that he would take care of her in life and in death.

The presenter : May Allah help you.