Marriage holds an important place in Islam and is considered a sacred institution. However, discussions around forced marriages and the importance of consent remain relevant and crucial topics of debate within the Muslim community. This article aims to delve into the concept of marriage in Islam, examining its principles and addressing the issue of Forced and Consensual partnerships. According to Jabir Ibn Abdullah (RA) Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) said, “If one among you offers marriage to a woman, he can look at her and find something that will inspire him to marry her, then let him do”. [Sunan Abu Dawud#1834]

The Sacred Institution of Marriage in Islam

Marriage is highly esteemed in Islamic teachings and is viewed as a means of companionship, Love, and procreation. It is a contract between consenting adults rooted in mutual respect and agreement. The Quran and Prophet Muhammad’s (Pbuh) Sunnah emphasize the importance of a loving and harmonious relationship between spouses. The Quran says, “And one of His signs is that He has created for you, spouses from among yourselves so that you might take comfort in them and He has placed between you, love and mercy. In this, there is surely evidence (of the truth) for the people who carefully think.” (Quran 30:21). Don’t force your daughter to marry someone against her will. If you are doing so, you are burying your daughter alive. In fact, marrying someone you like or love is not Islamically wrong. Abdullah Ibn Abbas (RA) narrated that the Prophet (Pbuh) said: “There is nothing like marriage, for two who love one another.” [Sunan ibn Majah#1847]
Another narration says that Mughirah Ibn Shu'bah (RA) said: "I proposed marriage to a woman during the time of the Messenger of Allah, and the Prophet said: 'Have you seen her?' I said: 'No.' He said: 'Look at her, for that is more likely to create love between you.” [Sunan Nasa’i#3235] Therefore, it’s clear that marrying someone you like or love is not unlawful although having a prohibited relationship before marriage cannot be justified.

The Principle of Consent

Islam strongly upholds the principle of consent in marriage. Both parties should willingly and knowingly enter the marital contract without external coercion. The consent of the bride, in particular, is given high importance, and her guardians and obligated to seek her approval before finalizing the union. The Quran completely prohibits men to marry any women against her will, Quran says, “O you who have believed, it is not lawful for you to inherit women by compulsion.” (Quran, 4:19) There’s a hadith reported by Sayyidah A’isha (RA), she says: “I asked Allah’s Messenger (Pbuh) about a virgin girl whose marriage is solemnised by her guardian, whether it was necessary or not to consult her. Allah’s Messenger (Pbuh) said: yes, she must be consulted. A’isha reported: I told him that she feels shy, whereupon Allah’s Messenger (Pbuh) said: Her silence implies her consent. [Sahih Muslim#1420]
Similarly, another narration says that Mughirah Bin Shu'bah (RA) said: "I proposed marriage to a woman during the time of the Messenger of Allah (Pbuh), and the Prophet (Pbuh) said: 'Have you seen her?' I said: 'No.' He said: 'Look at her, for that is more likely to create love between you.” [Sunan Nasa’i#3235]

Misinterpretation and Forced Cultural Practices

Forced marriages, although practised by some individuals and communities, are not in line with Islamic teachings. Cultural practices and local customs that go against the principles of consent and choice have wrongly been associated with Islam. The article explores the reasons behind forced marriages. It highlights the need to differentiate between cultural practices and genuine Islamic teachings. Many young girls turn out to be the victims of forced marriage just because of the cultural traditions, customs and narrow-mindedness of their guardians. Various other factors like casteism, sectarianism and regionalism also become a base for forced marriages in our society. Islam does not allow this evil tradition of forced marriages; a true follower of Islam can neither practice nor promote any tradition or custom based on discrimination on any basis. Khansa Bint Khidamb al-Ansariya narrated that: “her father gave her in marriage when she was a matron and she disliked that marriage. So, she came and (complained) to the Prophet (Pbuh) and he declared that marriage invalid. [Sahih Bukhari#5138]

The Role of Guardians and the Islamic View on Matchmaking

In Islam, guardians (Wali) protect and support the interests of the vulnerable party, particularly the bride. The article discusses the responsibilities of guardians and emphasizes their duty to ensure the consent and well-being of both parties involved. Additionally, it sheds light on Islamic teachings regarding Matchmaking, highlighting the importance of compatibility, shared values, and mutual consent. Our society fabricate standard for marriage that actually don’t exist in our religion by doing this we are leading people toward Haram. It is the basic teachings of our Islam that makes the path of marriage easier and also one of the greatest battles against Satan.

Role of Muslim Scholars and Community Initiatives

Islamic scholars play a vital role in addressing forced marriages and promoting awareness about the importance of consent in Islam. They provide religious guidance and counter misinterpretations that lead to forced unions. The article explores the efforts of Islamic Scholars, community organizations, and campaigns that aim to educate, empower, and protect individuals from forced marriages.

Empowering Individuals

Education and awareness are crucial in combating forced marriages within the Muslim Community. The article highlights the importance of comprehensive sex education, discussions on consent and healthy relationships, and providing resources for individuals at risk. Legal protections against forced marriages are also explored, focusing on how they can complement religious teachings and community initiatives.
Marriage in Islam is rooted in consent, respect, and choice. Islamic teachings do not support forced marriages and are often attributed to cultural practices or misinterpretations. By raising awareness, promoting education, and empowering individuals, the Muslim community strives to uphold the sacred institution of marriage in line with the principles of Islam. The purpose of marriage is to find peace, as Almighty Allah mentioned in the Quran, “And one of His signs is that He has created for you, spouses from among yourselves so that you might take comfort in them, and He has placed between you, Love and Mercy. There is surely evidence (of the truth) for the people who carefully think.” (Quran 30:21)
In nutshell we can say that marriage is a mutual consent of both parties to live as husband and wife, and when they see each other, they find peace (Sukoun) in each other.

Email:-------------sarishanjum786@bgsbu.ac.in