Question:

Asalamualaikum,

I am my elder sister’s wali, my sister has received a marriage proposal from one of my cousins however he doesn’t read all 5 prayers, he only reads Fajr Namaz and attends jumah, he also listens to music, free mixes with non mahram relatives like cousins etc. I should let you know, my sister was negligent with prayer before but she does read all namaz’s except fajr and she has also started trying to read fajr as I have continued to encourage and advise her. I feel my sister fears Allah now and is a good girl. Do you think it is wise for us to accept this marriage proposal? My mother has said perhaps my cousin could change after marriage and read all the prayers.

Answer:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.

Marriage is a lifelong agreement. It is a major decision that has a big impact on one’s life. This is why Shariah has highly emphasized the importance of choosing a Deeni (religious) spouse.

Generally, women are tender and soft-hearted by nature. They are usually influenced by the Deeni (religious) temperament and mindset of the husband, whether positively or negatively. Hence we advise you to ensure that you give over your sister’s hand to one who will be able to positively influence her in terms of Deen, especially since you indicate that she is now starting to change the direction of her life positively. Nevertheless, we advise you to make Istikharah and place your trust in Allah Ta’ala.

And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best

(Mufti) Abdul Azeem bin Abdur Rahman

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