In a family where a woman only has a mahram brother or a mahram son, what are the scope of duties imposed on this male from side of islam?
Bismillahi Ta’ala
Walaikum Assalam Warahmatullah,
Allah informs us:
“Men are caretakers of women, since Allah has made some of them excel the others, and because of the wealth they have spent.” (Surah Nisa’, Ayah 34)
In the absence of a woman’s father or husband, it is wājib on her male mahram relatives to provide for her if she is in need. This is known as nafaqah, and it entails the necessities of life which include:
- Food
- Clothing
- Accommodation
In the case that the woman earns for herself, it is not wajib upon them to provide nafaqah.
Finances aside, the mahram should strive to provide emotional support and companionship to his female relative and always display exemplary character. They should not mention the support they have given her.
“Those who spend their wealth in Allah’s cause, and do not follow their spending with reminders of their benevolence or hurtful words, will have their rewards with their Lord: no fear for them, nor will they grieve.” (Surah Baqarah, Ayah 262)
Wallahu A’lam
And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best
Muftī Mohammed Wahaajuddin
Farmington Hills, Michigan, USA
Checked and Approved by
Mufti Faisal al-Mahmudi