for her fasting does not deprive him of any of his rights; its permissibility is the implicit purport of the hadith under discussion, because the reason for prohibition is absent.

As for an obligatory fast—such as Ramadan, whether observed in its proper time or made up later—it takes precedence over the husband’s wishes, and she must keep it even if he objects, for “there is no obedience to a created being if it involves disobedience to the Creator.”

4 – Should she begin a voluntary (nafl) fast without his consent, the fast itself remains valid, yet undertaking it is unlawful for her, because her husband’s right is given priority over optional fasting.

5 – Nonetheless, the spouses should live together in kindness and good conduct. Each of them is to treat the other benevolently and honorably so that their companionship may endure and their union continue.

6 – The husband’s permission need not be stated explicitly; if she understands from the circumstances that he is pleased with her fasting, that is sufficient, for customary permission carries the same weight as verbal permission.