The Book of Marriage - Sunan an-Nasa'i 3210

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,'" and he quoted the same hadith.

Commentary on the Hadith

This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) addresses the youth specifically, indicating the importance of marriage during the prime of one's life. The phrase "whoever among you can afford it" refers to both financial capability and physical maturity, encompassing the means to provide the mahr (dowry) and sustain a household according to one's capacity.

Scholars explain that marriage is strongly recommended (mustahabb) for those who possess the means, as it protects one's chastity and lowers the gaze. The Prophet's address to "young men" emphasizes that this guidance is particularly crucial during youth when desires are strongest. The condition of affordability ensures that one does not fall into difficulty while fulfilling this noble injunction.

Imam Nawawi comments that this hadith establishes marriage as a Sunnah for those who fear falling into sin and have the necessary means. The comprehensive nature of "affordability" includes both the initial marriage expenses and ongoing maintenance, with the understanding that Allah provides for those who seek to obey Him through legitimate means.

Legal Rulings Derived

Based on this hadith, classical scholars determined that marriage moves from being recommended to obligatory when one fears falling into unlawful sexual relations. The Hanafi school particularly emphasizes this obligation when such fear exists.

The condition of affordability is interpreted reasonably - one should not delay marriage due to perfectionist expectations of wealth, nor should one enter marriage without basic means of support. The balanced approach recognizes both spiritual protection and practical considerations in Islamic law.