Is it true that the Prophet (SAW) said that men have been endowed with more akal (intellect) than women by Allah SWT? Also how does this relate to decision making b/n a married couple.

It is true that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) has mentioned that women have less intelligence than men. This is recorded in Bukhari Shareef. As far as decision making between husband and wife, the Shari'ah has made the husband the head of the family. The wife has to obey his lawful demands. This does not mean that he should not consult with her, or that she has no say whatsoever in the family, but it means that time final authority lies with the husband.

Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said, 'I have not seen a person deficient in intelligence and Deen more able to overcome an intelligent man that you, O women. The women asked, 'What is the deficiency in our intellect and Deen.' Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) replied, 'Is it not that in testimony, your testimony is half of the man's.' They replied, 'Certainly.' He (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said, 'This is due to your deficient intellect.'

and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best

Mufti Ebrahim Desai
FATWA DEPT.