I am married to a man who is Muslim in name only; he does not perform the matters of religion, such as prayer and fasting, and he eats from forbidden things and does not provide for the children.

The questioner : This is a sister asking, and she says: I am married to a man who is Muslim in name only, and this is her expression. He does not perform the matters of religion, such as any of the prayers or fasting, and he eats from forbidden things and does not provide for the children. Is it obligatory for her to obey him, and is it permissible for her to take a portion of his money for her and her children's pressing need?

The Shaykh : It is not permissible for her to remain with such a man; rather, it is obligatory for her to request to separate from him. If he agrees, that is fine; otherwise, she must separate from him against his will, because it is not permissible for her to live under his guardianship. As for taking from his money without his permission, that is not permissible, and the first solution is the primary way out.