Hadith Text & Reference

The Messenger of Allah said: "When someone whose religion and character you are pleased with comes to you then marry (her to) him. If you do not do so, then there will be turmoil (Fitnah) in the land and discord (Fasad). If you do not do so, then there will be turmoil (Fitnah) in the land and discord (Fasad)." They said: "O Messenger of Allah! What if there was something about him?" He said: "When someone whose religion and character you are pleased with then marry him." (And he (pbuh) said this) three times.

Source: Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1085, The Book on Marriage

Primary Conditions for Marriage

The Prophet (pbuh) emphasizes that the fundamental criteria for accepting a marriage proposal are the suitor's sound religion (Deen) and good character (Khuluq). These two qualities form the foundation of a successful Islamic marriage that pleases Allah.

Religion here encompasses correct belief, fulfillment of religious obligations, and avoidance of major sins. Character refers to moral conduct, honesty, trustworthiness, and good treatment of others.

Repetition for Emphasis

The Prophet's repetition of this instruction three times indicates the extreme importance of this matter in Islamic law. This repetition serves to eliminate any ambiguity and emphasizes that these are the primary considerations, not secondary ones.

Even when the companions sought clarification about other potential concerns, the Prophet reaffirmed the same criteria, indicating their supremacy over other worldly considerations.

Consequences of Neglect

The warning of "Fitnah" (turmoil/trial) and "Fasad" (corruption/discord) appearing in the land indicates the societal consequences of neglecting these guidelines. When marriages are based on criteria other than religion and character, it leads to:

- Breakdown of family structures

- Moral decay in society

- Weakening of religious commitment in future generations

- Social instability and corruption

Scholarly Interpretation

Classical scholars explain that this hadith establishes the priority of religious and moral qualities over worldly attributes like wealth, lineage, or physical appearance. While these may be considered, they should not override the primary conditions.

Imam at-Tirmidhi classified this hadith as hasan (good), and scholars consider it a foundational text for Islamic marriage guidelines, warning guardians against rejecting suitable proposals based on superficial reasons.