Keeping away from the wife after revoking the divorce

Q 1: A Muslim remained married for twenty years or more and then he married again and divorced his first wife. Three months later, his second wife died, so he took back his first wife in marriage. He used to enter his house and eat whatever food and drink she had prepared but without talking to her at all. They lived like this for one year. Many righteous people have tried to reconcile them but the husband always refuses. What is the ruling of Islam on this?

A: Evidence from Shari`ah (Islamic law) support the obligation of good companionship between the spouses. A husband should take his wife back in marriage in a good manner and it is Haram (prohibited) for him to take her back just to hurt her. Moreover, it is permissible for a wife to ask for Talaq (divorce pronounced by a husband) if her husband does not treat her well, even if she has to ask the ruler to help her to get a Talaq. (Part No. 19; Page No. 383) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.