Is a person responsible for their spouse not performing prayers?

According to Islam, every individual is responsible for their own actions and not for the actions of others. The Qur'an states, "No bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another. If a heavily laden soul calls [another] to carry some of its load, nothing of it will be carried, even if he should be a close relative." (Fâtır, 35/18). Islam teaches that every person has free will and the freedom to choose, and as a result, will be held accountable for what they do. The verses, "Every soul is held in pledge for what it has earned." (et-Tûr, 52/21); "So whoever does an atom's weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom's weight of evil will see it." (ez-Zilzâl, 99/7-8); "He (Allah) is not questioned about what He does, but they will be questioned." (el-Enbiyâ, 21/23) are evidence of this.

If a Muslim does not fulfill their acts of worship, they will answer to Allah for it. The duty of other Muslims is to advise and encourage them. It is essential for a person to begin enjoining good (amr bi'l-ma'ruf) with those closest to them, starting with their family. This was also commanded to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). When commanding him to convey the message, our Lord said, "(And warn) your closest kindred." (Shu'ara, 26/214). In a hadith, it is also stated that every Muslim is responsible for those under their care (Bukhari, Jumu'a, 11 [893]; Muslim, Imara, 20 [1829]). Spouses have responsibilities toward each other and their children, not only in material matters but also in spiritual matters. This responsibility is to teach and encourage the requirements of religion. For Allah the Exalted says to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him): "And enjoin prayer upon your family and be steadfast therein. We do not ask you for provision; We provide for you. And the [best] outcome is for [those of] righteousness." (Taha, 20/132).

A person should kindly explain to their spouse who does not perform prayers the material and spiritual benefits of prayer, encourage them to repent for past negligence, and try to persuade them to pray. Despite such kind advice, the responsibility for not performing prayers lies entirely with the one who does not pray.

Source: T.C. Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı, Din İşleri Yüksek Kurulu