It was narrated that 'Abdullah said: "The Messenger of Allah said to us: 'O young men, 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 he should fast, for it will be a restraint (wija') for him.'"
The Book of Marriage - Sunan an-Nasa'i 3209
This noble hadith from the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) addresses the youth specifically, as they are at the peak of their physical desires. The command to marry for those who have the means demonstrates Islam's practical approach to channeling natural instincts through lawful means.
Scholarly Commentary on Marriage
The phrase "whoever among you can afford it" refers to both financial capability and physical ability. Financial capability means having sufficient resources for the mahr (dowry) and maintenance, while physical ability means being capable of fulfilling marital duties.
"More effective in lowering the gaze and guarding chastity" indicates that marriage serves as a protective barrier (hifdh) for one's chastity. The marital relationship legitimizes what would otherwise be forbidden, thus protecting the individual from falling into sin.
The Virtue of Fasting as Alternative
For those unable to marry, fasting is prescribed as a spiritual remedy. The term "wija'" means a shield or protection - indicating that fasting weakens physical desires and strengthens spiritual resolve.
Scholars note that this fasting refers specifically to voluntary fasting beyond the obligatory Ramadan, as it serves to cool the passions and redirect one's focus toward spiritual pursuits until marriage becomes feasible.
Legal Rulings Derived
This hadith establishes that marriage is highly recommended (mustahabb) for those who desire it and have the means. It is not obligatory because the Prophet (ﷺ) gave an alternative for those unable to marry.
The wisdom behind this teaching shows Islam's balanced approach - neither suppressing natural desires nor allowing their unbridled fulfillment, but rather channeling them through lawful means that preserve dignity and spiritual purity.