A woman may be married for four reasons: for her property, her status. her beauty and her religion, so try to get one who is religious, may your hand be besmeared with dust.
The Book of Suckling - Sahih Muslim 1466
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. All praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds, and may peace and blessings be upon His final Messenger Muhammad.
Context of the Hadith
This noble hadith from Sahih Muslim provides profound guidance for selecting a marriage partner. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) acknowledges the various worldly considerations that people typically have when choosing spouses, then directs believers toward the most virtuous choice.
Scholarly Commentary
The four reasons mentioned represent common human inclinations: wealth (property), lineage (status), physical attraction (beauty), and piety (religion). Scholars explain that while the first three are temporal and subject to change, religious commitment provides a foundation for a stable, blessed marriage that pleases Allah.
Imam An-Nawawi comments that this hadith emphasizes prioritizing religious character over worldly attributes, as piety ensures proper treatment between spouses and righteous upbringing of children. The phrase "may your hand be besmeared with dust" is an Arabic expression encouraging earnest effort in seeking a pious spouse.
Practical Application
This teaching does not prohibit considering other qualities, but establishes proper priorities. A religious spouse will fulfill rights, maintain trust, and cooperate in establishing a household upon Islamic principles. Scholars note that religious compatibility facilitates mutual understanding and shared life goals centered on pleasing Allah.
The wisdom behind this guidance ensures the spiritual welfare of the family unit and contributes to building a righteous society. May Allah grant us the ability to implement this prophetic guidance and choose spouses who will be the coolness of our eyes in this life and the next.