What is the ruling on a husband who does not treat his wives with equity?

Question : Honorable Shaykh Muhammad, a woman is calling us on the line. She says: As for a husband who is married to two wives and has not fulfilled the rights of the two wives in terms of financial maintenance and cohabitation, perhaps you have some guidance on the issue of equity. May Allah reward you with good?

Answer : I say that it is obligatory for one who has two wives to be equitable between them in everything he is able to do. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) threatened the one who does not be equitable between the two wives, saying: This is a great warning and a severe threat. So a person should fear Allah regarding those whom Allah has placed under his hands, under his authority and control. He should know that these women between whom he did not be equitable will be among his adversaries on the Day of Resurrection.