The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "A woman is married for four things, i.e., her wealth, her family status, her beauty and her religion. So you should marry the religious woman (otherwise) you will be a losers.
Hadith Text
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "A woman is married for four things, i.e., her wealth, her family status, her beauty and her religion. So you should marry the religious woman (otherwise) you will be losers."
Sahih al-Bukhari 5090
Context and Occasion
This hadith addresses the common considerations men evaluate when seeking marriage, acknowledging worldly attractions while emphasizing spiritual priority.
Scholarly Commentary
Imam Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains in Fath al-Bari that the Prophet ﷺ first mentions worldly considerations people naturally gravitate toward, then concludes with the essential criterion of religious commitment.
The four factors are listed in ascending order of importance, with religion being the ultimate priority that preserves both worldly and spiritual benefits.
Scholars note that "losers" refers to deprivation in both this world and the hereafter, as a non-religious spouse may lead to disobedience to Allah and family discord.
Legal and Practical Implications
This hadith establishes religious compatibility as the primary foundation for Muslim marriage, while not completely disregarding other legitimate considerations.
The ruling applies reciprocally - women should also prioritize religious men when considering marriage proposals.
The warning "you will be losers" serves as severe caution against neglecting this essential criterion for temporary worldly attractions.
Source Reference
Book: Wedlock, Marriage (Nikaah)
Author: Sahih al-Bukhari
Hadith: Sahih al-Bukhari 5090