I have come across a narration in Hayatus Sahabah from which it is understood that Sayyiduna ‘Umar (radiyallahu ‘anhu) passed a decision that a man could not go in the path of Allah and leave his wife for more than 4 – 6 months.
Keeping this narration in mind, what is the ruling regarding married ‘Ulama going for 1 year and married non-‘Ulama going for 7 months – 1 year?
Answer
For the Fiqh (Juristic) ruling on this issue, one should refer to a qualified Mufti, who understands how the effort of Tabligh really functions. Like is the case when one seeks a Fatwa (Juristic ruling) on any contemporary issue. The Mufti that is being called upon should be one who is abreast with the related details of that subject.
However, I will merely provide an explanation to the narration in question:
The injunction of Sayyiduna ‘Umar (radiyallahu’anhu) in question should be understood to mean that a man cannot stay away from his wife, whatever the reason for more than four months without her consent. This is clearly what Sayyiduna ‘Umar (radiyallahu’anhu) meant in that injunction, as is evident after one reads the entire incident fully.
Therefore, if the wife does consent, one will not be violating this order of Sayyiduna ‘Umar (radiyallahu’anhu).
In current times, this is easily understood by the conditions of millions of expat workers that are employed in foreign lands. Many of these expat labourers serve their time of employment for several years at a time without returning home for any sort of visit. Since they are seeking a livelihood, their wives and family back home do approve of this, despite the many challenges and difficulties they may face in the absence of their husbands. May they all be rewarded for their sacrifices.
Similarly, those women who understand the need for their husbands engaging in the effort of Tabligh also consent to their absence for lengthy periods of time. They understand the need for a global effort on the spirituality of mankind. May Allah Ta’ala reward their sacrifices and increase their numbers.
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best,
Answered by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar