‘Abdallah b. ‘Umar reported God’s Messenger as saying, “When one of you is invited to a wedding-feast he must attend it.” In a version by Muslim he said, “He must accept, whether it is a wedding-feast or something of that nature.”(Bukhari and Muslim.)
The Obligation of Accepting Wedding Invitations
This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) establishes the religious importance of responding to wedding invitations. The command "he must attend it" indicates a strong recommendation approaching obligation in Islamic law, unless there is a valid excuse.
Scholarly Commentary on the Wedding Feast
The wedding feast (walimah) is a Sunnah established by the Prophet to publicize the marriage and seek blessings. Scholars like Imam Nawawi explain that accepting such invitations strengthens community bonds and shares in the joy of fellow Muslims.
The additional wording in Muslim's version "or something of that nature" extends this ruling to similar celebratory gatherings, showing the comprehensive nature of Islamic social etiquette.
Valid Excuses for Non-Attendance
Classical scholars mention several valid excuses: genuine illness, extreme distance, presence of unlawful activities at the gathering, or prior conflicting obligations. Mere inconvenience does not constitute a valid excuse according to the majority position.
Spiritual and Social Wisdom
This teaching fosters Muslim unity, removes barriers between people, and creates opportunities for mutual support. The wedding feast serves as both a religious observance and social necessity in building a cohesive Islamic community.