A wife should obey her husband. Where is the line between obedience to her husband and the desire to realize her natural talents and interests? Especially in cases where the husband does not love his wife, does not strive to live as a Christian, and engages in other improper behaviors? #

The talents and abilities given by God are fully realized in each person only when they are directed within the path outlined by God—remaining within the natural bounds established by the Lord. A woman, as the keeper of the home and nurturer of children, forming their cultural identity and foundations of faith, has traditionally channeled her talents and abilities through her children. It is through her children that she historically saw her glory.

Modern civilization has dismantled traditional societies and families. Today, a woman has the option to choose whether she wants to build a family, marry, and have children, or to pursue a career and secure her material well-being first, postponing childbirth indefinitely. If a woman chooses a career, she will not have to answer to anyone, but she may eventually experience loneliness and regret over unfulfilled motherhood, as this is a God-given role ingrained in her. By choosing to establish a family, she can channel her talents and abilities into creating a cozy home, supporting her husband, and raising children, fostering in them the skills and virtues she herself possesses. Once her primary task of raising and nurturing children is fulfilled, she may return to self-realization in other activities, provided these pursuits do not disrupt the family dynamic.

If the husband is firmly opposed to the wife’s chosen means of self-realization, she should heed his wishes. However, a loving husband, while objecting to a specific activity chosen by his wife, should offer her an “outlet” in another area, ensuring she does not feel reduced to a servant or slave within the home. If the husband, even under the guise of Christian reasoning and language, continuously opposes his wife, disregards her wishes, and forces her to do only what he desires—especially if he fails to fulfill his Christian duties toward the family—he ultimately undermines the family, erodes trust between spouses, and effectively destroys love. It is doubtful that such a family can endure for long.

There are numerous nuances to consider, and it is impossible to provide a single answer that satisfies all situations. I believe that specific issues should be addressed in consultation with one’s spiritual father.

— Priest Evgeny Gureev.