🧒 Raising children (tarbiyah) · #1

Is a wife obliged to breastfeed her child?

According to the Shafi'i school, a wife is not legally obliged to breastfeed except for the first milk (colostrum) or where there is no alternative, but breastfeeding is greatly encouraged.
Allah mentions that the complete breastfeeding period is two years, and the father must bear the needs of the breastfeeding mother. If the baby will not accept other milk or there is no carer, the mother must breastfeed to save the baby. Breastfeeding brings great benefits to child and mother. The husband should support his wife with help, rest and nutrition. See Children.

Difference between schools. Maliki: obligatory upon a wife still within the marriage according to custom, except for women of high status who customarily do not breastfeed. Hanafi: obligatory as a religious duty (diyanah) but not compelled by the court.

Sources

Surah al-Baqarah 2:233Surah at-Talaq 65:6

Next →Is a husband responsible for teaching his wife the religion?

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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