'Abd al-Malik b. Rabi' b. Sabraal-Juhanni reported on the authority of his father who narrated it on the authority of his father (i e. 'Abd al-Malik's grandfather, Sabura al-Juhanniy Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) permitted us to contract temporary marriage in the Year of Victory, as we entered Mecca, and we did come out of it but he forbade us to do it.
The Book of Marriage - Sahih Muslim 1406 f
This narration from Sahih Muslim discusses the temporary marriage (mut'ah) that was initially permitted during the Year of Victory (Fatḥ Makkah) but subsequently prohibited by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Historical Context and Ruling
The temporary marriage was allowed during the military campaign of Mecca's conquest when soldiers were away from their families for extended periods. This temporary concession addressed human needs while maintaining discipline.
The subsequent prohibition demonstrates the Islamic principle of temporary concessions (rukhas) during necessity, which expire when the circumstances change. This reflects divine wisdom in gradual legislation.
Scholarly Consensus
The majority of classical scholars, including the four Sunni schools of jurisprudence, hold that mut'ah marriage remains permanently forbidden after its prohibition, based on numerous authentic narrations and consensus of the companions.
This ruling protects lineage, maintains the sanctity of marriage as a permanent institution, and prevents the exploitation of women through temporary arrangements.
Legal Wisdom
The initial permission and subsequent prohibition illustrate the gradual development of Islamic law, where certain practices were phased out to elevate the moral standards of the Muslim community.
This approach demonstrates the mercy and practical wisdom of Islamic legislation, considering human circumstances while gradually guiding toward higher spiritual and moral objectives.