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In an age where social media often portrays love and material success as the ultimate foundations for a happy life, a growing number of Islamic scholars and community leaders are reminding Muslim youth of the timeless principles found in the Qur'an and Sunnah (the teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad). The central message is clear: faith (Iman) should be the foremost criterion when choosing a life partner, as it is the only quality that can truly sustain a marriage through life's inevitable challenges.
This sentiment was recently echoed by former Nigerian Ambassador to Sudan, Ambassador Safiu Olaniyan, during a community gathering. He emphasized that qualities like love, wealth, and physical beauty are transient and can easily diminish over time. "Love will fade, wealth will fade and beauty will diminish. But Islamic faith sustains marriage through trials," he stated, highlighting a core Islamic teaching.
This perspective is not merely a piece of advice but is deeply rooted in the foundational texts of Islam. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) explicitly advised Muslims on this matter. In a well-known narration (Hadith) recorded in the collections of both Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, he said, “A woman is married for four things: for her wealth, for her noble lineage, for her beauty, or for her religion. So, win the one who is religious, otherwise you will be a loser.” This guidance is widely understood to apply equally to men. The Hadith doesn't forbid considering other factors but unequivocally places religion as the most important.
The Qur'an also provides a blueprint for a successful marriage, describing it as a "covenant of peace" and a source of "tranquility and mercy." In Surah Ar-Rum (30:21), Allah says: "And among His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed, in that are signs for a people who give thought."Â The verse highlights sakinah (tranquility), mawaddah (love/affection), and rahmah (mercy) as the divine gifts within a marital relationship. However, Islamic scholars explain that these qualities are most likely to flourish and endure when both partners are committed to their faith. A shared belief system provides a common moral compass, guiding how a couple navigates disagreements, raises children, and interacts with their extended families.
The importance of a shared religious foundation is particularly significant in today’s society, where distractions and pressures can lead to marital discord. As pointed out by Dr. Saheed Imran, the Amir of The Companion, Abuja District, the rising cases of broken homes are a growing concern. He stressed that a marriage is the "bedrock of society" and its stability is crucial for the well-being of the entire community. When two individuals share a commitment to their faith, they are more likely to turn to Islamic principles for conflict resolution, forgiveness, and mutual support, rather than resorting to divorce at the first sign of trouble.
Ultimately, the Islamic view on marriage goes beyond a simple union of two individuals. It is seen as a profound act of worship, a path to spiritual elevation, and a way to build a righteous family that will contribute positively to society. By prioritizing faith, Muslim youth are urged to build their marital homes on a solid foundation that can withstand the tests of time, ensuring not only worldly happiness but also spiritual success.
