Hadith Text & Reference

The Messenger of Allah said: "When someone whose religion and character you are pleased with proposes to (someone under the care) of one of you, then marry to him. If you do not do so, then there will be turmoil (Fitnah) in the land and abounding discord (Fasad)."

Reference: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1084 | The Book on Marriage

Primary Conditions for Marriage

The Prophet (ﷺ) establishes two fundamental criteria for accepting a marriage proposal: satisfaction with the suitor's religion (deen) and character (khuluq). Religion refers to his Islamic faith, practice, and adherence to religious obligations. Character encompasses his moral conduct, honesty, trustworthiness, and treatment of others.

This hadith emphasizes that these spiritual and moral qualities should take precedence over worldly considerations such as wealth, social status, or lineage when evaluating potential spouses.

Obligation of Guardians

The phrase "one of you" addresses the guardians (wali) responsible for women under their care. Islamic law requires a guardian's involvement in marriage to ensure proper protection and consideration of the woman's interests.

The guardian's duty is to facilitate marriage when a suitable Muslim of good character proposes, not to create unnecessary obstacles or delay the marriage without valid Islamic reasons.

Consequences of Neglect

The severe warning about "turmoil (Fitnah) and abounding discord (Fasad)" indicates the grave social consequences of preventing rightful marriages. Fitnah here refers to the corruption, temptation, and social chaos that arises when young people are prevented from marrying through legitimate means.

Fasad signifies widespread corruption in society, including increased illicit relationships, broken families, and moral decay that results from creating barriers to lawful marriage.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam at-Tirmidhi classified this hadith as hasan (good). Scholars explain that this teaching protects society's moral fabric by encouraging early marriage for those who are ready and qualified.

Ibn al-Qayyim commented that preventing suitable marriages leads youth toward sin and destroys the protective boundaries (hudud) that Allah has established for human dignity and social order.

The hadith serves as a warning against those who reject suitable proposals due to worldly reasons, thereby contributing to societal corruption and moral decline.