While I was walking with 'Abdullah at Mina, 'Uthman happened to meet him. He stopped there and began to talk with him. Uthman said to him: Abu 'Abd al-Rahman, should we not marry you to a young girl who may recall to you some of the past of your bygone days; thereupon he said: If you say so, Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: 0 young men, those among you who can support a wife should marry, for it restrains eyes from casting (evil glances). and preserves one from immorality; but those who cannot should devote themselves to fasting for it is a means of controlling sexual desire.
The Book of Marriage - Sahih Muslim 1400a
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. This narration from Sahih Muslim contains profound wisdom regarding the Islamic perspective on marriage and its spiritual benefits.
Contextual Analysis
The encounter between 'Uthman and 'Abdullah at Mina demonstrates the concern of righteous companions for one another's spiritual welfare. 'Uthman's suggestion that 'Abdullah marry a young girl reflects the Islamic encouragement of marriage as a means of spiritual protection.
Prophetic Guidance on Marriage
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) directed this counsel specifically to young men, recognizing the intensity of natural desires during youth. Marriage is prescribed as the primary means of channeling these desires in a lawful manner.
The phrase "those who can support a wife" refers to both financial capability and emotional readiness to fulfill marital responsibilities according to one's means.
Spiritual Benefits of Marriage
"It restrains eyes from casting (evil glances)" - Marriage provides a lawful outlet for natural desires, thereby protecting the believer from unlawful gazing and inappropriate interactions.
"Preserves one from immorality" - The marital relationship serves as a divinely prescribed protection against zina (fornication and adultery), which is among the gravest sins in Islam.
Alternative for Those Unable to Marry
For those incapable of marriage due to financial constraints or other legitimate reasons, fasting is recommended as a means of controlling sexual desire. Fasting weakens physical desires and strengthens spiritual resolve through obedience to Allah.
This demonstrates Islam's comprehensive approach to human nature, providing practical solutions for different circumstances while maintaining spiritual integrity.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars emphasize that this hadith establishes marriage as a highly recommended act (mustahabb) for those capable, and may become obligatory if one fears falling into sin. The wisdom behind this guidance preserves individual purity and societal morality simultaneously.
The preservation of chastity through lawful means reflects Islam's balanced approach to human nature, neither suppressing natural desires nor permitting their unrestrained fulfillment.