Keeping Wives In The Same House But Different Rooms!

 Today is Yawmul Jumu'ah (Friday), 14th of Jumada-thani 1447 Hijri (05-12-2025).

Less than three months remain until the blessed month of Ramadan! May Allah preserve us upon goodness and righteousness.

Alhamdulillah! May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon the most honorable of mankind, Prophet Muhammad ibn Abdullah (peace be upon him), and all those who follow him until the Day of Judgment.

Can a Muslim Man Keep Wives in the Same House but Different Rooms?

In contemporary times, many polygamous families seek cohesion and unity among wives and children. A common and practical approach is for the entire family to live together under one roof, with each wife having her own private space or room. This arrangement fosters a sense of family unity while respecting the privacy and rights of each wife.

Historically, many Muslim families practiced this form of polygamy, where wives lived in the same compound or house but maintained separate living quarters. Sometimes, one wife would assist in caring for the children of her co-wife or co-wives, and all wives often contributed to the household affairs collaboratively.

The Rights of the Wife in Islam Regarding Accommodation

Islam places great emphasis on the rights and dignity of wives, including their right to suitable and private accommodation. Allah, the Exalted, commands in the Qur’an:

“Accommodate them where you also reside, according to your means, and do not harass them in order to make their lives difficult.” — Surah At-Talaq (65:6)

This verse clearly instructs husbands to provide their wives with accommodation that is suitable and comfortable, within their financial means, and forbids causing hardship or discomfort.

What Does Suitable Accommodation Mean?

Suitable accommodation means that the wife should have a private space that is not shared with others, including the husband’s family members such as his mother, siblings, or other relatives. The accommodation should be equipped with the basic necessities that allow her to live comfortably and maintain her privacy and dignity. This includes:

A separate room or living area

Access to a kitchen

A bathroom or washing facilities

The husband is responsible for ensuring that these conditions are met, as part of his duty to care for his wife.

Is Separate Accommodation a Right?

Yes, separate accommodation is a right of the wife. It is not considered a cause of separation or discord between the husband and his family. Rather, it is a means of preserving the wife’s dignity and comfort. If a wife requests separate accommodation, this should be respected and fulfilled if it is within the husband’s means. The wives can also decide to give up any of their rights and demand them later!

Why Is This Important?

Preserving Privacy: Each wife deserves her own private space to live and rest peacefully.

Avoiding Hardship: Sharing accommodation with others, especially extended family, can cause discomfort and tension.

Maintaining Harmony: Separate living spaces help prevent conflicts and foster respect among co-wives.

Upholding Islamic Ethics: Providing suitable accommodation is part of fulfilling the husband’s Islamic responsibilities.

Final Thoughts

Keeping wives in the same house but in different rooms is permissible and often beneficial when done with justice, respect, and kindness. The husband must ensure that each wife’s rights are upheld, including providing separate, suitable accommodation that safeguards her dignity and comfort.

Islamic teachings emphasize that the husband must not cause hardship or discomfort to his wives. Providing them with their own space within the same home can be a practical and harmonious way to fulfill these obligations, promote family unity, and maintain peace in the household.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Anyone who has two wives and then inclines to one of them will come on the Day of Resurrection with one side of his body deformed.”

May Allah guide all Muslim families to live in harmony, justice, and mutual respect. Ameen.