It was narrated that 'Alqamah said: "I was with Ibn Mas'ud while he was with 'Uthman, may Allah be pleased with him, and 'Uthman said: 'The Messenger of Allah came out to some fityah (young men)--Abu 'AbdurRahman said, 'I did not understand (the word) fityah as I would want'-- and said: 'Whoever among you can afford it, let him get married, for it is more effective in lowering the gaze and guarding chastity, and whoever cannot, then fasting will be a restraint (wija') for him.'"
Hadith Commentary: The Virtue of Marriage
This narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i 3206 presents profound guidance from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) regarding the institution of marriage and its spiritual benefits.
Context and Chain of Narration
The hadith reaches us through the reliable chain of 'Alqamah narrating from Ibn Mas'ud, who was in the company of the Caliph 'Uthman ibn Affan (may Allah be pleased with him).
The term "fityah" refers to young men who have reached physical maturity but have not yet married. Abu 'AbdurRahman's comment indicates his scholarly precision in verifying the exact terminology.
Primary Ruling: Marriage as Protection
The Prophet's instruction establishes marriage as the primary means for safeguarding one's chastity. The phrase "more effective in lowering the gaze and guarding chastity" indicates that marriage provides comprehensive protection for both the eyes and private parts.
Scholars explain that marriage creates a lawful outlet for natural desires, thereby making it easier to avoid unlawful glances and relationships.
Condition of Affordability
The condition "whoever among you can afford it" refers to having the financial means to provide the mandatory mahr (dower) and maintenance (nafaqah). This demonstrates Islam's practical approach to legislation, considering individual circumstances.
Scholars differ on what constitutes "affordability," with the majority opinion being that one should not delay marriage due to fear of poverty when basic provisions are available.
Alternative for Those Unable to Marry
For those unable to marry, the Prophet prescribed fasting as "wija'" - meaning a shield or protection. Fasting weakens physical desires and strengthens spiritual resolve, creating a barrier against sin.
This demonstrates the wisdom of Islamic law in providing solutions for all circumstances, ensuring that every believer has means to preserve their chastity.
Scholarly Conclusions
This hadith establishes marriage as highly recommended (mustahabb) for those who can afford it, while remaining obligatory only when there is fear of falling into sin.
The comprehensive nature of this guidance shows Islam's balanced approach to human nature, providing both primary and secondary solutions for spiritual protection.