It was narrated from 'Alqamah, that 'Uthman said to Ibn Mas'ud: "Shall I arrange for you to marry a young girl?" 'Abdullah called 'Alqamah and he told the people that the Prophet 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 afford it, then let him fast, for it will be a restraint for him."
Hadith Context & Transmission
This narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i (3207) presents a profound Prophetic guidance on marriage. The chain begins with 'Alqamah ibn Qays, a prominent Tabi'i scholar, narrating from the esteemed Companion 'Uthman ibn 'Affan, who offered to arrange a marriage for another great Companion, 'Abdullah ibn Mas'ud. Ibn Mas'ud then authenticated this by recalling the direct Prophetic instruction through 'Alqamah.
Primary Ruling: The Virtue of Marriage
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ declared marriage recommended (mustahabb) for those possessing financial capability (al-istita'ah). This capability encompasses both the initial marriage expenses (mahr, wedding costs) and ongoing maintenance (nafaqah) for the wife according to one's means.
Marriage is established as a complete half of religion, protecting half of one's faith through chastity. It transforms physical desire from a potential source of sin into an act of worship and mercy, fulfilling a natural human need within divinely prescribed boundaries.
Spiritual Benefits: Lowering the Gaze & Guarding Chastity
The phrase "more effective in lowering the gaze" (aghaddu lilbasari) indicates marriage's preventive nature. A fulfilled spouse naturally experiences diminished inclination toward unlawful looking, as the legitimate outlet reduces temptation's power.
"Guarding chastity" (ahfazu lilfarji) emphasizes marriage's protective quality. It serves as a fortress (hisn) preserving one's sexual purity from illicit relationships, thereby protecting lineage, honor, and spiritual integrity in society.
Alternative for the Financially Incapable: Fasting
For those unable to meet marriage's financial responsibilities, the Prophet prescribed fasting as a spiritual remedy. This demonstrates Islam's practical wisdom - when the primary solution is unavailable, Allah provides alternative paths to righteousness.
Fasting weakens physical desires and strengthens spiritual resolve, creating "a restraint" (wija') against sin. Like marriage, it disciplines the nafs (ego) and redirects energy toward Allah-consciousness, though through different means.
Scholarly Commentary on the Wisdom
Classical scholars note this hadith balances spiritual and practical considerations. Marriage is preferred when possible, but fasting remains a valid alternative demonstrating that Allah's mercy accommodates all circumstances.
The narration also illustrates Companions' concern for each other's spiritual welfare, as 'Uthman sought to facilitate Ibn Mas'ud's marriage recognizing its religious benefits beyond mere social convention.