I married a woman during the lifetime of Allah's Messenger (may peace be. upon him). I met the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ), whereupon he said: Jabir, have you married? I said: Yes. He said: A virgin or one previously marrried? I said: With due previously married, whereupon he said: Why did you not marry a virgin with whom you could sport? I said: Allah's Messenger, I have sisters; I was afraid that she might intervene between me and them, whereupon he said: Well and good, if it is so. A woman is married for four reasons, for her religion, her property, her status, her beauty, so you should choose one with religion. May your hands cleave to dust.
The Book of Marriage - Sahih Muslim
Hadith Reference: Sahih Muslim 715 d
Contextual Analysis
This narration from Jabir ibn Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) demonstrates the Prophet's personal concern for his companions' marital affairs. The Prophet's inquiry reflects his role as both spiritual guide and compassionate community leader.
Scholarly Commentary
The Prophet's initial question reveals the general preference for marrying virgins, as they are typically more adaptable and create stronger bonds. However, Jabir's practical consideration about his sisters shows that individual circumstances may justify alternative choices.
The four reasons for marriage mentioned - religion, wealth, lineage, and beauty - encompass worldly and spiritual considerations. The Prophet's emphatic instruction to "choose one with religion" establishes the primacy of faith over other attributes.
The expression "May your hands cleave to dust" is a classical Arabic idiom expressing earnestness and emphasis, not a literal curse. It underscores the importance of prioritizing religious commitment in marital selection.
Legal and Spiritual Implications
This hadith establishes that while multiple factors may influence marriage decisions, religious piety must be the primary consideration. A righteous spouse contributes to spiritual growth, proper upbringing of children, and stability in both worldly and hereafter affairs.
The narration also demonstrates the flexibility in Islamic law, where valid personal circumstances (like Jabir's concern for his sisters) can justify choices that might otherwise be less preferred.