I am the mother of four children. I have been married for eighteen years to a man who has never known prayer at all during these years, despite the difficult circumstances he has gone through.

The questioner : This questioner says: "O honorable Shaykh — and although her message is long — she says: I am the mother of four children. I have been married for eighteen years to a man who has never known prayer at all during these years. Despite the difficult circumstances he has gone through, his son passed away. After that, he was involved in a painful accident, but he did not take heed and continued in disobedience. I always offer him advice and guidance, but he does not want me to speak on this subject, even though he always mentions Allah. When I ask his mother to advise him, she says: 'Be patient. Many people are patient.' But my fear of the Fire and of the poor upbringing of my children has made me think about separation. There have been many problems between us. The divorce took place last year. He went to his mother’s house a year and four months ago. I stayed to raise my children and I call upon Allah for his success and guidance. However, I was informed by a relative that he has started praying in the mosque at some times due to the influence of some of his companions, and because his mother said: 'If you pray, you will marry another woman.' I tried to arrange a mediator to intervene between us so that he would return to his home if what I heard is true. But his mother stands in the way of his happiness and says: 'You will not return until she raises a second wife for you.' I ask you, O honorable Shaykh, to guide me to someone who will make me happy and stand by my children to bring their father back without problems. What is your opinion and guidance?"

The Shaykh : First, I say: If it is true that the man has returned to Islam through prayer, there is no harm in returning to him with a new contract. But if he is still leaving off prayer, it is not permissible for you to return to him. Yes.