It was narrated from Jabir that he married a woman at the time of the Messenger of Allah, and the Prophet met him and said: "Have you got married, O Jabir?" He said: 'Yes.' He said: 'A virgin or a previously-married woman?' I said: 'A previously-married woman.' He said: 'Why not a virgin who would play with you?' I said: 'O Messenger of Allah, I have sisters, and I did not want her to come between them and I.' He said: 'That's better then. A woman may be married for her religious commitment, her wealth or her beauty. You should choose the one who is religiously committed, may your hands be rubbed with dust (may you prosper).'"
The Book of Marriage - Sunan an-Nasa'i 3226
This narration from Jabir ibn Abdullah contains profound wisdom regarding marital selection and demonstrates the Prophet's personal concern for his companions' welfare.
Contextual Analysis
The Prophet's inquiry about whether Jabir married a virgin or previously-married woman shows his intimate involvement in community affairs. His initial suggestion for a virgin reflects the natural preference for youthful companionship in marriage.
Jabir's response reveals mature consideration for his sisters' welfare, prioritizing family harmony over personal preference - a noble quality commended by the Prophet.
Scholarly Commentary
The final instruction represents the cornerstone of Islamic marital guidance: prioritize religious commitment over worldly attributes. The phrase "may your hands be rubbed with dust" is an Arabic expression meaning "may you prosper" or "may you be successful."
Classical scholars emphasize that religious compatibility ensures lasting marital peace, proper upbringing of children, and mutual spiritual growth. While wealth and beauty may attract initially, piety provides the foundation for a successful marriage that pleases Allah.
Legal and Ethical Implications
This hadith establishes the hierarchy of considerations in spouse selection: religious commitment first, then character, then other qualities.
It also validates marrying previously-married women and demonstrates the permissibility of practical considerations in marriage decisions, provided they don't contradict religious principles.