Title: Wife refusing to have further children

Question: I am 40 years old, my wife is 34. I already have 3 children (all girls). I have a 2 bedroom house, after having downgraded from a 3 bedroom house, due marital arguments over finances and the wives annoyance about where she lived, as she felt out of the loop. After having sold the bigger house, as I mentioned to a smaller house, but I still wish to have another child (hopefully if Allah wills it a Son). PROBLEM: The problem is the wife is refusing to have any more children on the grounds that she already has 3. The previous 3 were not planned nor was it ever discussed but I am happy with 4. What is the Islamic ruling on this, and what options are open to me if she refuses to have kids? Unless I buy a bigger house – I cannot right now afford to have a bigger house – should I consider marriage with someone else? Do I need consent etc?

Answer ID: 47198Posted on: Sep 1, 2020

Bismillah hir-Rahman nir-Rahim !

(Fatwa: 209/208/H=02/1435) When you have a small house, then it seems improper to have a second marriage. You will find it difficult to fulfil the rights of both the wives. The best way is to keep on convincing the present wife with wisdom and politeness so that she leaves her stubbornness and live happily with you as well as obey you wholeheartedly. The thinking of wife about children is not right as per the Shariah. May Allah give her right understanding!