Prayer TimesChoosing a spouse is one of the most important decisions in life. The best blessing in this world is a good spouse. Our Shariah encourages us to pay special attention to the following qualities when choosing a wife.
Religiosity. First and foremost, a woman should be religious. Faith protects a person from forbidden and sinful acts. A religious woman avoids actions that incur Allah’s wrath and always seeks her husband’s approval. The Prophet (ﷺ) explained what to consider when choosing a spouse, saying:
“A woman is married for four things: her wealth, her lineage, her beauty, and her religion. Choose the religious one, and you will prosper.”
In another hadith:
“Do not marry women only for their beauty, for their beauty may lead to ruin. Do not marry them only for their wealth, for their wealth may cause them to transgress. Marry them for their religiosity. A religious slave woman is better.”
Beauty and wealth are temporary, but faith remains. If a woman is religious, beautiful, well-mannered, and from a good family, that is a double blessing.
Character. The second important factor is good character. This is closely linked to the first point, as a religious woman will naturally have good manners. Her faith prevents her from bad speech and behavior. The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“After a believer’s piety towards Allah, the greatest benefit he receives is a righteous wife: if he commands her, she obeys; if he looks at her, she pleases him; if he swears an oath, she fulfills it; and if he is absent, she protects herself and his property.”
Luqman the Wise advised his son: “O my son! Beware of a bad woman, for she will make you old before your time. Seek Allah’s protection from bad women! Ask Allah for the best among them and strive to marry a righteous one. Then you will find happiness in life.”
Chastity. The third important factor is choosing a chaste woman who has not been previously married. The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Marry virgins, for their speech is sweet, their wombs are more fertile, and they are content with little.”
Ability to bear children. Another important factor is choosing a woman who is likely to bear many children. Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) encouraged marriage and said:
“Marry loving, fertile women, for I will boast of your numbers before the prophets on the Day of Judgment.”
Compatibility. Another important aspect is that the man and woman should be compatible in nature and social status. Their faith, education, and social standing should be similar. The more similar they are, the more likely their marriage will be blessed, harmonious, and a good example for their children. It is also recommended to marry from a different tribe or region, as this can contribute to the health and strength of the offspring.
Medet QURSAQOV
Specialist, Shariah and Fatwa Department, SAMK
“Iman” magazine, No.1, 2024
This content was drafted with AI assistance and reviewed by an editor.