QUESTION:

My husband and I have married for four and half years. We can never discuss money issues. He gives me $40 a week for gas and food. I work part time and get paid every 6 months. I always end up using my money to buy myself my clothes, and women necessities. He thinks that what he gives me is enough. He has his own business and I know sometimes it’s tough but am I wrong asking him for more?

ANSWER:

Going by the rule, and the mutual responsibilities as laid down in Islam, your husband is to bear all expenses in the family, not only the gas and food, but your clothes and other related requirements. If you have been contributing through your bi-annual pay receipts, it is just a favour as you are not obliged to do that.

We know well that $40 is a meager amount even for a small kitchen and family. We wish and request your husband to give the matter a serious thinking. Let you both openly discuss this money matter and see if and how things could be made easier. Remember family is no business; it is rather happy conjugal partnership, mutual respect, love and affection.