Is it possible that one of us may contract temporary marriage with you? She said: What will you give me as a dower? Each one of us spread his cloak. She began to cast a glance on both the persons. My companion also looked at her when she was casting a glance at her side and he said: This cloak of his is worn out, whereas my cloak is quite new. She, however, said twice or thrice: There is no harm in (accepting) this cloak (the old one). So I contracted temporary marriage with her, and I did not come out (of this) until Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) declared it forbidden.
Hadith Commentary: The Prohibition of Mut'ah Marriage
This narration from Sahih Muslim 1406 b recounts the practice of temporary marriage (mut'ah) during the early Islamic period and its subsequent prohibition by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). The incident demonstrates how this practice was initially permitted but later abrogated by divine revelation.
Scholarly Analysis of the Narration
Classical scholars explain that mut'ah marriage was permitted during specific circumstances, particularly during travel and military campaigns, to prevent greater evils. However, the permanent legislation of Islam established marriage as a sacred, permanent institution.
The mention of the dowry (cloak) indicates that even temporary marriages required proper contractual elements, including mutual consent and specified mahr. The woman's careful consideration of both offers shows the requirement of free choice in Islamic contracts.
Legal Ruling and Consensus
All four Sunni schools of jurisprudence agree that mut'ah marriage became permanently forbidden after being initially permitted. The prohibition represents the completion of Islamic legislation and the establishment of marriage as a solemn, enduring covenant.
This hadith serves as decisive evidence against those who claim temporary marriage remains permissible in Sunni Islam. The narrator's statement "until Allah's Messenger declared it forbidden" establishes the final ruling beyond doubt.
Wisdom Behind the Prohibition
Scholars note that the prohibition protects lineage, honors women's dignity, and maintains the sacred nature of family in Islam. Temporary arrangements undermine the comprehensive rights and responsibilities that Islamic marriage establishes between spouses.
The incident also illustrates how companions immediately abandoned practices once they learned of their prohibition, demonstrating perfect obedience to prophetic guidance.