I lived with my husband for 4 years, and I worked all that time. He never paid me any thing. I worked hard and all the time. When he divorced me I took my money that I calculated for the 4 years of work. He spread gossip about me claiming that I stole from him and even said that to his family. He told them that I was abused by some men. It is very painful to me to have my honor touched. I have never told anyone about what happened between me and him; it was a secret even after divorce and he was the cause of the divorce. On the day of divorce I took a promise from him to never say that I took his money and he said that he knew that this money is mine, and if there was any mistake in calculation he would never ask about it before Allah. He asked me to stay in contact with him as friend after divorce. I refused because I know that it is Haram. Then he started to talk about me (he and his family). What is the ruling in Islam about that? I have to note that he liked that I worked and he always asked me to forget even our home just to bring money because I had a very good job at that time. He did not practice Islam, even the prayers.

Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds; and may His blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his Family and Companions.

Life in this world is full of trials and tests. Every believing man and woman is tested and suffers in life, in their children and their wealth. Through such trials Allah increases their grades and expiates their shortcomings. The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam) said: "Hardships continue to befall on a believing man and woman in their body, family and property until they meet Allah burdened with no sins."

Therefore, you should believe that Allah has tested you and you should be patient and Allah will bring a good end.

The money you took from your husband is lawful for you since it is your money and there is no harm in that. A woman is free to dispose of her money as she wishes. A husband cannot take his wife's money except with her permission and approval. There is no blame on a woman to take her money and rights from her husband.

As regards his claims against you, basically a Muslim man and woman are considered chaste. So, accusing them of what defames their honour is a major sin. Whoever does so should make repentance for accusing a chaste Muslim and should ask pardon from them. The honour of a Muslim is as sacred as his blood and his property.

Your refusal to maintain friendship (relationship) with him after divorce is a praiseworthy act since doing so is forbidden. Believe that Allah made a great favour on you by separating you from this husband who has lost his religion.

Seek Allah's help and continue making Dua to provide you with a good husband, as Allah says: "And those who say: "Our Lord! Bestow on us from our wives and our offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and make us leaders for the Muttaqûn (pious)." (Al-Furqan 25:74)

Allah knows best.