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GAZA – A childhood under the bombs 😔

Since October 2023, the Gaza Strip has been enduring one of the bloodiest conflicts of our time. Under relentless bombardment, civilian infrastructure collapses, hospitals overflow, and children’s cries echo through the rubble. Over 38,000 people have been killed — the majority being women and children — according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health. But beyond the death toll lies another tragedy: the systematic destruction of the Palestinian family.

Israeli airstrikes target residential areas, schools, mosques, hospitals — even shelters where displaced families have gathered. Entire families are wiped out in a single strike. It’s not just homes that are being destroyed, but entire lineages, generations, and family stories.

UNICEF has described this as the worst humanitarian crisis of the 21st century for children. Thousands have become orphans, injured, or traumatized for life. Family bonds — normally a refuge during war — are being shattered.

Islam sees the family as the foundation of society. It is built on love, compassion, and mutual responsibility. The Qur’an says:

“And among His signs is that He created for you spouses from among yourselves so that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy.”
(Surah Ar-Rum, 30:21)

This sacred bond is what the bombings in Gaza seek to destroy. It is no longer just about killing individuals, but about dismantling the social and spiritual structure of the Palestinian people.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)

Parents are entrusted with the sacred duty to protect, feed, and raise their children. In Gaza, this right is being cruelly stripped away. Mothers are giving birth without anesthesia; fathers are burying their children with their bare hands. Islam views the inability to fulfill these parental duties not just as a tragedy, but a severe violation of divine order.

Islam teaches that the loss of a child, a parent, or a home is among the heaviest trials — but also an opportunity for spiritual elevation through sabr (patience).

“Give glad tidings to the patient — those who, when calamity strikes them, say, ‘Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.’”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:155–156)

Many families in Gaza embody this prophetic example. Despite their pain, they remain firm in faith, make duʿāʾ, and refuse to surrender their dignity.


What’s happening in Gaza is not just a geopolitical conflict — it is an assault on the very foundations of humanity, and on what Islam holds most sacred: family, compassion, and justice.

As members of the Ummah, we have a duty to:

  • Support Gaza through prayer, charity, and raising awareness.
  • Preserve our own families by strengthening the sacred bonds the modern world seeks to weaken.
  • Educate our children about solidarity, justice, and human dignity.

Let us remember the words of the Prophet ﷺ:

“The Ummah is like a single body: when one limb suffers, the entire body feels the pain.”
(Sahih Muslim)

🚨 The Israel-Iran Conflict, and a Fragile Ummah

🌍 A Divided Ummah Facing the Same Pain

Today, rising tensions between Israel and Iran, against the backdrop of the war in Palestine, are exposing a deep rift within the Muslim Ummah. While Gaza is under siege and Al-Quds (Jerusalem) is suffering, Muslim unity is nowhere to be found.
Iran, a Shia-majority country, presents itself as a supporter of the Palestinian cause, while some Sunni-led governments remain silent, neutral, or even normalize ties with Israel.
The Sunni-Shia division, rooted in history and fueled by politics, is weakening our solidarity at a time when the Muslim world should be united as one body.

📖 Islam Forbids Division

Allah ﷻ says:

« And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. »
(Surah 3, verse 103)

And also:

« Indeed this, your Ummah, is one single Ummah, and I am your Lord, so worship Me. »
(Surah 21, verse 92)

The Prophet ﷺ said:

« The believers, in their love and compassion for one another, are like a single body: if one part suffers, the whole body suffers with it. »
(Bukhari & Muslim)

Yet today, the cries of Gaza do not awaken every part of that body. Why? Because internal divisions have drowned our brotherhood.

⚠️ A Division That Benefits the Enemy

While Muslims remain divided, the enemy advances.
Israel does not fear Sunnis or Shias—it fears a united Ummah. Foreign powers exploit sectarian differences to divide and conquer.
Governments, whether Sunni or Shia, often use religion for political gain, and this harms the Palestinian cause and the image of Islam as a whole.

✡️ Not All Jews Support Israel

It’s important to remember: this is not a war between Muslims and Jews.
Many practicing Jews openly oppose the war in Palestine.

Groups like Neturei Karta, a community of ultra-Orthodox anti-Zionist Jews, state:

« The State of Israel has no right to exist according to the Torah. Zionism is a political ideology, not Judaism. »

They regularly protest in cities like New York, London, and Paris, holding signs that say:

« Not in our name »
« Zionism ≠ Judaism »
« Free Palestine »

This proves that the conflict is political, colonial, and ideological, not a religious war.
The real battle is between justice and oppression, truth and falsehood—not between Islam and Judaism.

✅ What Muslims Must Do

  1. Reject hate speech between Sunnis and Shias.
  2. Focus on the real enemy: occupation, oppression, and injustice.
  3. Refuse to let politics manipulate our faith.
  4. Respect all sincere believers, and oppose all forms of tyranny.
  5. Work toward unity, through knowledge, faith, and justice.

🤲 One Front, One Cause

Palestine reflects the state of the Ummah: wounded, divided, yet still standing.
In the face of Israeli aggression and the confusion of Sunni, Shia, Jewish, and Christian identities, Islam calls us to justice—not hatred.

Let us not allow sectarianism to rob us of our shared duty.
Let us not confuse Judaism with Zionism, nor Shiism with hostility.
Let us unite for truth, dignity, and the liberation of the oppressed.

« O you who believe! Stand firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah—even if it be against yourselves… And do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. »
(Surah 5, verse 8)

🕋 The Dajjāl and Palestine

Today, Palestine is going through a lot of pain: war, injustice, and suffering of innocent people. Many Muslims ask: Is this a sign of the end of times? Is there a connection with the Dajjāl, the false messiah who will come before the end of the world?

👁️ Who is the Dajjāl?

The Dajjāl is a very dangerous man who will appear at the end of time. He will pretend to be a prophet, then claim to be God. He will perform fake miracles to mislead people.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“Since the time of Adam, there has been no greater trial than that of the Dajjāl.”
(Authentic Hadith – Muslim)

📖 What Does the Qur’an Say About Him?

The name « Dajjāl » does not appear in the Qur’an, but Allah speaks about liars and those who claim to be divine. For example:

“The Messiah (Īsā, Jesus) would never be too proud to be a servant of Allah.”
(Surah 4, verse 172)

This shows that Jesus is not God, unlike what the Dajjāl will falsely claim.

🕌 What Is the Link With Palestine?

According to many sayings of the Prophet ﷺ, the Dajjāl will not be able to enter three cities: Makkah, Madinah, and Jerusalem (Bayt al-Maqdis). This shows that Palestine is a blessed and protected place.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“The Dajjāl will not be able to enter Makkah, Madinah, or Bayt al-Maqdis.”
(Authentic Hadith)

This is why Jerusalem is very important in Islam and is a place of spiritual resistance.

⚠️ Signs of the Dajjāl: Similarities With Today?

The Prophet ﷺ said that before the Dajjāl comes, there will be lies and confusion everywhere:

“Before the Dajjāl, there will be years of deception: the liar will be believed, and the truthful will be called a liar.”
(Hadith – Ibn Mājah)

This sounds very much like what we see in the media today, with lies about what’s happening in Palestine and honest voices being silenced.

🙏 What Should We Do?

The Prophet ﷺ gave us advice to protect ourselves:

  1. Read the first 10 verses of Surah Al-Kahf every Friday for protection from the Dajjāl.

“Whoever memorizes the first ten verses of Surah Al-Kahf will be protected from the Dajjāl.”
(Hadith – Muslim)

  1. Say this du‘ā (supplication) in your daily prayers:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ وَمِنْ فِتْنَةِ الْمَسِيحِ الدَّجَّالِ

Allâhoumma innî a‘oûdhou bika wa min fitnati-l-Masîhi-d-Dajjâl

“O Allah, I seek refuge in You… from the trial of the false messiah (Dajjāl).”

💡 Conclusion

The crisis in Palestine reminds us that the world is moving closer to the end times. The Dajjāl will come with lies and injustice. Palestine, especially Jerusalem, is a symbol of truth and faith during this test.

Let us pray for our brothers and sisters in Palestine, read the Qur’an, strengthen our faith, and prepare ourselves by staying close to Allah.

🕌 Islam, Eid al-Adha, and Marriage: Between Joy, Spending, and Debt


Eid al-Adha (also known as Eid al-Kabir) is a time of joy, generosity, and spirituality. It commemorates the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him), who was willing to sacrifice his son for the sake of Allah. This celebration is a reminder for Muslims to renew their faith, trust in Allah, and solidarity with others.

However, in today’s world, Eid has also become a source of social pressure, especially for newly married couples. Some go into serious debt just to buy an expensive ram, luxurious clothes, or to host extravagant gatherings — all to please others. Yet, Islam teaches us moderation, financial wisdom, and dignity without ostentation.


The Spiritual Meaning of Sacrifice

The Qurbān (sacrifice) of Eid is not a contest of who buys the biggest or most expensive animal. It is an act of worship meant to bring one closer to Allah.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches Him.”
— Surah Al-Hajj, 22:37
Phonetic: « Lan yanāla l-lāha luḥūmuhā wa-lā dimāuhā wa-lākin yanāluhū t-taqwā minkum »

👉 This shows that sincerity and intention are more valuable than the amount spent.


Eid and the Responsibilities of a Married Couple

In marriage, financial management is a shared responsibility. One of the couple’s priorities is to build economic stability. Unfortunately, many families or young spouses feel the need to « prove » themselves by spending beyond their means during Eid — even if it means taking out loans.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ warned:

“Whoever incurs a debt with no intention of repaying it will come on the Day of Judgment as a thief.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)

📌 Going into unnecessary debt for the sake of appearances or social pressure is blameworthy in Islam.


Moderation: A Prophetic Value

The Prophet ﷺ lived simply, even during festive occasions. He never demanded more than what was available.

Allah says:

“Do not be wasteful. Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils.”
— Surah Al-Isrā, 17:26-27
Phonetic: « Wa lā tubadh-dhir tabdhīran – Inna l-mubadh-dhirīna kānū ikh’wāna sh-shayāṭīn »

✅ It is better to:

  • Buy a ram according to your actual means
  • Avoid sacrificing if you cannot afford it (it is a highly recommended Sunnah, not obligatory)
  • Share a ram with other families
  • Celebrate Eid simply but joyfully

💡 4. How to Avoid Debt During Eid?

Here are a few practical tips, especially for married couples:

  1. Plan in advance: Save small amounts throughout the year
  2. Stay modest: Wear clean and decent clothes without extravagance
  3. Ignore social pressure: Allah’s opinion matters more than people’s
  4. Focus on worship: Eid is about faith, not consumerism

🤝 5. True Joy in Marriage During Eid

The happiness of a couple is not found in impressing others, but in divine blessing (barakah), peace, and shared spirituality. Celebrating Eid together, according to one’s means and with sincerity toward Allah, strengthens the bond between spouses and increases the blessings in the home.


Eid al-Adha is a golden opportunity to get closer to Allah, not to fall into debt or waste. A Muslim couple should approach this day with gratitude, simplicity, and wisdom. Rather than spending to impress others, it’s better to invest in love, faith, and patience.

“And those who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor stingy, but hold a balance between those (extremes).”
— Surah Al-Furqān, 25:67
Phonetic: « Wa l-ladhīna idhā anfaqū lam yus’rifū wa lam yaqturū wa kāna bayna dhālika qawāmā »


Sexual Disorders and Their Treatment in Islam

(Impotence, Lack of Desire, and Lawful Solutions)

Sexuality in Islam is neither a taboo nor a shameful topic, as long as it is approached with modesty, ethics, and within the lawful framework of marriage. Among the realities faced by some Muslim couples are sexual disorders: impotence, lack of desire, pain during intercourse, etc. These issues can cause marital tension, frustration, or even spiritual doubt. Islam acknowledges these situations and offers responses that are compatible with faith, psychology, and medicine.

📌 1. The Importance of Intimate Life in Marriage
Sexual intimacy is one of the fundamental marital rights in Islam. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“In the sexual act of one of you, there is a charity (sadaqa).”
Sahih Muslim

This hadith shows that lawful sexuality is not only permissible but also spiritually rewarded. Unjustly refusing intimacy to one’s spouse can lead to discord and even sin. This highlights the importance of preserving this intimate bond, even when it is affected by difficulties.

🩺 2. Sexual Impotence (al-‘ajz al-jinsī)
Definition:
Impotence refers to the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual intercourse.

Islamic Perspective:
Impotence is not a shame, but a trial. Islam encourages medical consultation and permits the use of lawful treatments (medication, behavioral therapy, herbal remedies).

The Qur’an says:

“So ask the people of knowledge if you do not know.”
Surah An-Nahl, 16:43

👉 This includes health specialists when the issue is physical or psychological.

Lawful Solutions:

  • Medical treatment (with halal-certified medications)
  • Recognized natural remedies (ginger, honey, fenugreek…)
  • Healthy diet and physical activity
  • Psychological counseling for emotional or stress-related causes
  • Ruqya (Qur’anic recitation for issues linked to whisperings or black magic)

💔 3. Lack of Sexual Desire (futūr jinsī)
Common Causes:

  • Fatigue, stress, hormonal imbalances
  • Marital conflicts
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Past trauma or psychological blocks

Islamic Approach:
The Prophet ﷺ encouraged tenderness, gentle speech, and emotional preparation for intimacy. He said:

“Let none of you fall upon his wife like an animal; let him first speak to her, kiss her…”
Reported by Al-Daraqutni

👉 Foreplay and tenderness play a crucial role in rekindling desire.

Practical Advice:

  • Open communication within the couple
  • Mental and physical preparation (cleanliness, fragrance, relaxation)
  • Reading Islamic marital advice together
  • Avoiding pornography and distractions that weaken natural desire
  • Making specific du‘ās (see below)

🙏 4. Spiritual Solutions and Recommended Du‘ās
Du‘ā to Improve Marital Relations:

“Rabbana hab lana min azwajina wa dhurriyyatina qurrata a‘yunin waj‘alna lil-muttaqina imama”
“Our Lord, grant us from among our spouses and offspring comfort to our eyes and make us an example for the righteous.”
Surah Al-Furqan, 25:74

Ruqya (Spiritual Relief through Qur’anic Recitation):

  • Surah Al-Fātiha
  • Ayat al-Kursī (2:255)
  • The last three Surahs: Al-Ikhlās, Al-Falaq, An-Nās
  • The supplication of Prophet Ayyūb عليه السلام:

“Rabbi innī massaniyaḍ-ḍurru wa anta arḥamur-rāḥimīn”
“O my Lord, harm has touched me, and You are the Most Merciful of the merciful.”
Surah Sād, 38:41

💬 5. When to Consult a Specialist?
Islam encourages seeking remedies through lawful means and not suffering in silence. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“There is no disease that Allah has created, except that He has also created its remedy.”
Sahih al-Bukhari

👉 If the issue persists, it is highly recommended to consult:

  • A medical doctor (urologist, gynecologist, endocrinologist)
  • A Muslim therapist or one who respects Islamic values
  • An imam or marital counselor for spiritual support

🤝 6. The Role of the Spouse: Patience, Listening, and Support
Islam encourages couples to show compassion, mercy, and understanding. Sexual intimacy is not just a physical act but an expression of love and the tranquility (sukūn) that marriage brings.

The Qur’an says:

“And He placed between you affection and mercy.”
Surah Ar-Rūm, 30:21


Sexual disorders should not be a source of shame, but a trial to face with faith, knowledge, and wisdom. Islam offers a balanced framework that combines spirituality, compassion, and openness to science. Seeking lawful solutions, maintaining open communication, and pursuing both spiritual and medical support can help restore harmony in the couple.

Islam and Bank Loans: A Dilemma During Eid

As Eid approaches, many Muslims face a growing temptation: taking out a bank loan to cover festive expenses. Preparing meals, and giving gifts to loved ones—these costs push some to consider credit. But what does Islam say about this?

The Prohibition of Riba (Bank Interest)

Islam strictly forbids riba (usury or interest), which is considered unjust exploitation and a disruption of economic balance. Allah says in the Qur’an:

« O you who have believed, fear Allah and give up what remains [due to you] of interest, if you should be believers. And if you do not, then be informed of a war [against you] from Allah and His Messenger. »
(Surat Al-Baqarah, 2:278-279)

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) also cursed those who engage in, record, or witness riba-based transactions. This consensus clearly shows that bank interest is forbidden, and Muslims should avoid it, even under financial pressure.

Islamic Alternatives to Bank Loans

Faced with this dilemma, Muslims who wish to adhere to their faith can consider several solutions:

  1. Saving and Planning Ahead
    • Setting aside money in advance to avoid relying on credit.
  2. Interest-Free Loans (Qard Hassan)
    • In the spirit of Islamic solidarity, a relative or an organization may offer an interest-free loan to someone in need.
  3. Islamic Banking
    • Many financial institutions offer Sharia-compliant financing based on profit-sharing or investment models, such as Murabaha or Mudaraba.
  4. Living Within One’s Means
    • Eid is a time for spirituality and togetherness, not excessive spending. It is best to maintain a simple lifestyle within one’s financial limits.

Eid, a Time for Faith, Not Debt

Eid should remain a spiritual and family-oriented celebration, free from financial burdens and unlawful debts. Instead of giving in to the temptation of interest-based loans, it is wiser to seek alternatives that align with Islamic principles and practice mindful spending.

May Allah make this Eid blessed and debt-free for all Muslims. Eid Mubarak!

Essential Invocations for the Month of Ramadan

Ramadan is the month of supplications, repentance, mercy, and liberation from the Fire. Rewards are multiplied infinitely. Therefore, we must take advantage of this month to enrich ourselves spiritually. Here are some invocations to learn and recite during this blessed month.

1 – Supplication upon sighting the crescent moon (Al-Hilâl)

اللَّهُ أَكْبَر اللّهُمَّ أَهِلَّـهُ عَلَيْـنا بِالأمْـنِ وَالإيمـان والسَّلامَـةِ والإسْلام، وَالتَّـوْفيـقِ لِما تُحِـبُّ رَبَّنـا وَتَـرْضـى رَبُّنـا وَرَبُّكَ الله

Allahu Akbar, Allahumma ahillu ’aleynâ bî-l-amni wâ-l-Îmân, wâ-s-salâmati wâ-l-Islâm wa-t-Tawfîq limâ tuhibbu Rabbana wa tardâ. Rabbunâ wa Rabbuka-l-lah.

« Allah is the Greatest! O Lord! Bring us with this new moon security and faith, peace and Islam, and success in all that You love and approve of. Our Lord and your Lord is Allah. »

2 – Supplication at the time of breaking the fast (Al-Iftar)

اللهم لك صمت وعلى رزقك افطرت وبك آمنت وعليك توكلت

Allâhoumma laka soumtou, wa ’alâ rizqika aftartou, wa bika âmanntou, wa ’alayka tawakaltou.

« O Lord! I have fasted for You, and with Your provision, I have broken my fast. I believe in You and place my trust in You. »

ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَابْتَلَّتِ الْعُرُوقُ، وَثَبَتَ الأَجْرُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّه

Thahaba-dh-dhama’u wabtallatil-’urooqu, wa thabatal-’ajru ’in shaa’ Allah.

« The thirst is gone, the veins are moistened, and the reward is assured, if Allah wills. »

3 – Supplication when seeking the Night of Decree (Laylatul-Qadr)

اللَّهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي

Allahumma innaka ’Afuwwun tuhibbu-l-’afwa, fâ’fu ’annî.

« O Allah! You are Forgiving, You love to forgive, so forgive me. »

4 – Supplication on the day of Eid while heading to the prayer place

اللَّهُ أَكْبَر، اللَّهُ أَكْبَر، لاَ إِلٰهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ، وَاللَّهُ أَكْبَر، اللَّهُ أَكْبَر وَلِلَّهِ الْحَمْدُ

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, lâ ilaha illa Allah, wâ-l-ahu akbar, Allahu akbar wa lillahi-l-hamd.

« Allah is Great, Allah is Great, there is no deity but Allah, and Allah is Great, Allah is Great, and to Him belongs all praise. »

5 – Supplication by the guest for the host

أكل طعامكم الأبرار، وصلت عليكم الملائكة الأخيار، وأفطر عندكم الصائمون

Akala Ta’âmakumu-l-Abrâru wa Sallat ’aleykumu-l-Malâ-ikah wa afTara ’indakumu-s-Sâ-imûn.

« May your food be eaten by the righteous, may the noble angels pray upon you, and may the fasting people break their fast at your place. »

6 – Greeting each other on the Day of Eid

تقبل الله منا ومنكم

Taqabala-l-lahu minâ wa minkum.

« May Allah accept (good deeds) from us and from you. »

The Muslim Hands France team wishes everyone a blessed Ramadan. May Allah grant you goodness, piety, and serenity.

Children’s Rights Over Their Parents

Parents have rights over their children, but children also have rights over their parents, as Allah has commanded:

« O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones. »
(Quran, 66:6)

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

« Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock. »
(Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Children’s Rights Over Their Parents:

  1. Choosing righteous parents: A pious spouse ensures a strong foundation for the child’s upbringing.
  2. Providing essential needs: Food, shelter, clothing, and a good name.
  3. Religious and moral education: Teaching Islamic values, protecting their faith, and preparing them for an honorable life.

Ibn al-Qayyim emphasized that neglecting children’s upbringing often leads to their deviation, harming their life in this world and the hereafter.

Finally, even if parents fail in their duties, children must always treat them with kindness, as Allah has commanded:

« Be grateful to Me and to your parents. »
(Quran, 31:14)

Allah knows best.

Continue your studies or get married?

Marriage and education are two important aspects of life that can sometimes seem in competition. Here is a reflection on this subject, informed by Islamic teachings.

Importance of marriage in Islam

Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) emphasized the importance of choosing a life partner based on religion and morality. He said :

“When someone comes to you (to marry your daughter) who satisfies you with his religion and morality, then accept him. »

  • Reported by At-Tirmidhî in the chapter of marriage (n°1084).

He also encouraged young people to marry to preserve their chastity and lower their gaze:

“O young people! Whoever among you is able to bear the burden of marriage, let him marry. He will thus be able to lower his gaze better and preserve his chastity. »

  • Reported by Al-Bukhârî in the chapter on marriage (n° 5065 and 5066), and by Muslim also in the chapter on marriage (n° 1400).

Refusal to marry can deprive individuals of the spiritual and moral benefits it brings.

Studies and marriage: a balance to find

It is essential to find a balance between further education and marriage. Here are some tips and considerations:

  1. Conditions for continuing studies : A woman may make it a condition of her marriage that she continue her studies until completion or continue teaching for a specified period, as long as she is not yet occupied by family responsibilities such as children.
  2. Usefulness of studies : It is advisable to review the relevance of in-depth studies in areas that are not directly useful. A basic education that enables reading and writing, and provides the skills needed to read and explain the Quran and hadith, is often considered sufficient.
  3. Essential studies : It is important to allow women to pursue studies in essential fields such as medicine, provided that these studies do not contain prohibited elements, such as excessive mixing or other practices not in accordance with Islamic principles. .

Conclusion

The decision to marry or continue education should not be seen as an exclusive choice. With open communication and clear agreements between partners, it is possible to pursue one’s educational ambitions while enjoying the benefits of marriage. Guardians and families must encourage young women to find this balance, thereby ensuring their spiritual, moral and intellectual development.

My Father Wants Me to Marry a Wealthy and Well-Bred Man

Marriage is a sacred institution in Islam, and it is natural for parents to wish the best for their children. However, the choice of a spouse should be approached with wisdom and in accordance with Islamic teachings. This article explores the issue of choosing a spouse when parents want their daughter to marry a wealthy and well-bred man, drawing on hadiths and verses from the Quran.

Marriage in Islam: A Sacred Union

Marriage is strongly encouraged in Islam. Allah says in the Quran:

« And among His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them, and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed, in that are signs for a people who give thought. » (Surah Ar-Rum, 30:21)

This tranquility and affection are essential elements for a successful marriage. Therefore, the choice of a spouse should be guided by criteria that promote this tranquility and affection, beyond mere material considerations.

Criteria for Choosing a Spouse

Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) provided clear advice on the criteria to consider when choosing a spouse. In a hadith reported by Abu Huraira, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

« A woman is married for four things: her wealth, her lineage, her beauty, and her religion. Choose the one who is religious, you will prosper. » (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This hadith highlights the importance of religious piety over other criteria. While wealth and lineage are factors to consider, they should not take precedence over faith and good character.

The Role of Parents in Choosing a Spouse

Parents play an important role in their children’s marriage, and their opinions should be taken into account. However, it is crucial that this role is exercised with wisdom and in accordance with Islamic principles. Allah says in the Quran:

« O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones. » (Surah At-Tahrim, 66:6)

Parents should ensure that their decision aligns with what is beneficial for their child’s faith and spiritual well-being.

The Importance of Mutual Consent

In Islam, the consent of both parties is essential for the validity of the marriage. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

« A virgin should not be married without her consent, and a previously married woman should not be married without consulting her. » (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This hadith underscores the importance of consent and personal choice in marriage. If a woman feels forced to marry against her will, it could contravene Islamic teachings.

Wealth and Family: Secondary Factors

While wealth and a good family background can be advantageous, they do not necessarily guarantee a happy and fulfilling marriage. Islam places greater emphasis on character, piety, and moral values. A hadith reported by Anas ibn Malik mentions that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

« If a person whose character and religion satisfy you comes to you seeking marriage, marry him. If you do not do so, there will be temptation on earth and extensive corruption. » (Sunan al-Tirmidhi)

This hadith highlights the importance of the suitor’s character and faith over his wealth or social status.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if your father wishes for you to marry a wealthy and well-bred man, it is important to respect his desires while considering Islamic teachings. The choice of a spouse should be based on piety, character, and moral values. Wealth and social status can be advantages, but they should not be the main criteria. Mutual consent and the pursuit of tranquility and affection are essential for a blessed and successful marriage.

Thus, it is important to engage in respectful and wise dialogue with your parents, reminding them of Islamic principles while listening to their concerns and seeking a balance that satisfies all parties involved.