Nikah or marriage is encouraged in Islam, it is endorsed in the Qur’an, the Sunnah and the unanimity of scholars because it protects fabric of the family and the Islamic social structure.
Marriage and Divorce
In Islamic terminology, the Arabic word nikah means a contract that permits an intimate, sexual relationship between man and wife in the legitimate way.[1]
Marriage is endorsed in the Qur’an, the Sunnah and the unanimity of scholars. Numerous Qur’anic verses confirm that it is lawful, such as:
‘then marry those that please you of [other] women, two or three or four. But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry] one.’
(4:3)
‘Marry the single from among you as well as such of your male and female slaves as are virtuous’
(24:32)
Many authentic hadiths encourage marriage:
:Ibn Mas'ud reports that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said
‘Young men, whoever of you can afford marriage should get married. It helps you lower your gaze and maintain your chastity. Those of you who cannot afford it may resort to voluntary fasting, for fasting serves as protection [from sin].’
Related by al-Bukhari, hadith No. 5,066; Muslim, hadith No. 1,400
:Ma'qil ibn Yassar reports that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said
‘Marry a woman who is loving and can give you children. I shall be taking pride in your numbers on the Day of Judgement.’
Related by Abu Dawud, hadith No. 2,050; al-Nassa’i, hadith No. 3,227; Ibn Hibban, hadith No. 4,056; al-Hakim, vol. 2, p. 176
All Muslims agree that marriage is lawful.
references
- Al-Shawkani, Fath al-Qadir, vol. 2, p. 339; al-Dardir, Al-Sharh al-Saghir, vol. 2, p. 332; al-Khatib al-Shirbini, Mughni al-Muhtaj, vol. 3, p. 123; Ibn Qudamah, Al-Mughni, vol. 6, p. 445