The importance of marriage in Islam
Marriage (nikāh) is not a mere social formality in Islam. It is an act of worship, a protection and a path towards the pleasure of Allah.
Marriage in the Qur'an
Allah ﷻ says in the Qur'an:
"And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquillity in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy." — Surah Ar-Rum, verse 21
This verse teaches us that:
- Marriage is a sign of Allah
- It brings tranquillity (sakīna)
- Allah places in it affection (mawadda) and mercy (rahma)
Marriage in the Sunnah
The Prophet ﷺ encouraged marriage on many occasions:
Protection of chastity
"O young men! Whoever among you is able to marry, let him marry, for it is more effective in lowering the gaze and preserving chastity." — Sahih Al-Bukhari & Muslim
Part of the Sunnah
"Marriage is part of my Sunnah. Whoever does not follow my Sunnah is not of me." — Sahih Al-Bukhari & Muslim
Completing half of the religion
"Whoever marries has completed half of his religion, so let him fear Allah with regard to the other half." — Al-Bayhaqi
The benefits of marriage
1. Spiritual benefits
- Protection against sins
- Fulfilment of an act of worship
- Multiplication of rewards
2. Psychological benefits
- Tranquillity and serenity
- Mutual emotional support
- Personal fulfilment
3. Social benefits
- Foundation of the family
- Upbringing of children
- Strengthening of family ties
Choosing one's spouse
The Prophet ﷺ gave us criteria for choosing a spouse:
"A woman is married for four reasons: her wealth, her lineage, her beauty and her religion. Choose the one with religion, and you will prosper." — Sahih Al-Bukhari & Muslim
And for women, the criterion is similar:
"If someone whose religion and character you are pleased with asks for your daughter's hand, then marry her to him." — At-Tirmidhi
Conclusion
Marriage is a blessing from Allah for His servants. It is the foundation of Muslim society and a means of attaining piety.
May Allah grant each of you a pious spouse who will be the coolness of your eyes.
رَبَّنَا هَبْ لَنَا مِنْ أَزْوَاجِنَا وَذُرِّيَّاتِنَا قُرَّةَ أَعْيُنٍ وَاجْعَلْنَا لِلْمُتَّقِينَ إِمَامًا
"Our Lord, grant us from among our wives and offspring comfort to our eyes and make us a leader for the righteous."