How many of the husband's ten obligations toward his wife derive directly from the Torah?
Halacha 2 states that three obligations stem from the Torah: sha'arah (subsistence), kesutah (clothing), and onatah (conjugal rights), derived from Exodus 21:10. The remaining seven are Rabbinic.
Question 2
Which three matters CANNOT be waived or modified by stipulation in a marriage contract?
Halacha 6 specifies these three exceptions: (1) conjugal rights — because they are non-monetary, (2) the fundamental ketubah minimum — because the Rabbis reinforced it unconditionally, and (3) the husband's inheritance — because inheritance statutes cannot be altered by stipulation.
Question 3
If a wife declares 'I will not hold you to providing my subsistence, but I will not work,' what is the legal outcome?
Halacha 4 states that since the labor-subsistence linkage was instituted for the woman's benefit, the option to forgo the arrangement lies with her. She may waive subsistence and keep her earnings, and she cannot be compelled to work.
Question 4
What is the standard daily subsistence allotment for a wife of a poor husband?
Halacha 10 specifies two meals daily as the standard for a poor man's wife, using the local staple grain plus legumes, vegetables, oil, fruit, and wine if customary for women in that locale. Three meals are given only on Shabbat.
Question 5
When a husband travels abroad, for how long does the court withhold a subsistence allotment from his wife before it begins selling his property on her behalf?
Halacha 16 states that for the first three months after the husband's departure, no allotment is made, because we presume a person does not leave without providing for his household. Only after that period does the court begin expropriating and selling his property for her support.