her mother or father, her sister or brother, or her paternal or maternal uncle or aunt into her husband’s house if he detests their presence.

I mention this because some women—Allah protect us—are a source of evil, even toward their own daughters. When such a mother sees that her son-in-law loves his wife, jealousy—Allah preserve us—overcomes her, and she tries to create discord between the daughter and her husband. In that case the husband may say to his wife, “Do not let your mother enter my home.” He is legally entitled to bar her, and he may also prevent his wife from visiting her, because the mother is a tale-bearer who spreads mischief. The Prophet ﷺ said, “A tale-bearer will not enter Paradise.”

He ﷺ then said, “And your duty toward them is to provide their sustenance and clothing in an honorable way.” Thus the husband must support his wife even if she is wealthy or employed. He has no claim on her job or on her salary—not a single penny. It is entirely hers, yet she retains the right to demand that he spend on her. If he protests, “How can I maintain you when you are rich and earn a salary like mine?” we reply, “You are still obligated to support her.” Should he refuse, the judge may dissolve the marriage against the husband’s will, for he is bound to her maintenance.

In sum, the Farewell Sermon is a tremendous address in which the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, confirmed many fundamentals of the religion and many rights. Among the things he proclaimed was: “Behold, every usury from the Age of Ignorance is placed beneath my feet.”

In the Age of Ignorance—may Allah