Marriage holds immense significance in Islam. It is the very first relationship established by Allah SWT between Prophet Adam and Hawa (Eve), and all other relationships stem from this foundational bond. Marriage is not only an act of Sunnah but is highly recommended in Islam, regarded as a means to attain spiritual perfection.

Allah says in the Qur'an:

"And among His signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in peace and tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts): Verily in that are signs for those who reflect” (Quran 30:21).

This verse highlights the importance of marriage in Islam as Allah has created us for one another, placing love and mercy in our hearts. It signifies that marriage is essential for a peaceful, fulfilling life.

“And marry those among you who are single and those who are fit among your male slaves and your female slaves; if they are needy, Allah will make them free from want out of His grace; and Allah is Ample-giving, Knowing.” (Surah an-Nur, 24:32)

This verse further emphasizes that marriage is a social responsibility that keeps individuals connected to society, preventing isolation or apostasy. Allah SWT also advises not to delay marriage due to financial concerns. Many today delay marriage for career-building and end up deprived of life's joys, facing the hardships alone. Allah's wisdom teaches that marriage should not be postponed indefinitely.

“O Humans revere your Guardian Lord, Who created you from a single person created of like nature its mate, and from this scattered (like seeds) countless men and women. Reverence Allah through Whom you claim your mutual rights” (Quran 4:1).

Marriage's importance is further emphasized in the verse:

"And Allah has made for you your mates of your own nature, and made for you, out of them, sons and daughters and grandchildren, and provided for you sustenance of the best." (Quran 16:72)

Importance of Marriage According to Hadith:

Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) said:

"O you young men! Whoever is able to marry should marry, for that will help him to lower his gaze and guard his modesty." [Al-Bukhari]

This hadith indicates that Islam encourages modesty and chastity, guiding believers to avoid immoral relationships. Marriage is a means to maintain modesty and live within the bounds of Islamic ethics.

"Marriage is my sunnah. Whosoever keeps away from it is not from me."

In this hadith, the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) expresses disapproval of those who avoid marriage without just cause, highlighting the significance of marriage as part of his teachings.

"Modesty was regarded as a great virtue by the Prophet. He said, 'Modesty is part of faith.'" [Al-Bukhari]

Islam places a high value on modesty, with the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) emphasizing that it is an integral part of faith.

Moreover, the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) also stressed the importance of consent in marriage:

“No previously-married woman (widow or divorcee) may be married until she has been asked about her wishes, and no virgin should be married until her permission has been asked.” (Reported by al-Bukhari, 4741)

This hadith shows that in Islam, marriage is a right of the individual, and it is essential that the woman's permission is sought, whether she is a widow, divorcee, or virgin. Forced marriages are prohibited, and the consent of the woman is fundamental in the process.

The Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) said: “Announce marriages.” (Reported by Imaam Ahmad; classed as hasan in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 1027)

Public announcement of marriages is encouraged to ensure transparency and avoid any hidden intentions, promoting a sense of community in the bond of marriage.