The Purpose and Goals of Marriage

Like anything a Muslim does marriage should be undertaken only after gaining an understanding of what God has prescribed in terms of rights and obligations as well as gaining an understanding of the wisdom behind this institution. Nearly all peoples and societies practice marriage in some form just as they practice business. ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab used to expel people from Madina’s marketplace if they did not know the Islamic rules of buying and selling. Likewise. Muslims should not engage in something as important as marriage without understanding its purpose or having a comprehensive understanding of the ensuing rights and obligations.

One of marriage’s most important purposes is to continue and increase the Muslim community’s population. Clearly this goal could be achieved without marriage but when actions are undertaken in disobedience to God they do not receive His blessing and corrupt society. The goal is not just to produce children for the next generation but to produce righteous children who will obey God serve the people and be a source of reward for their deceased parents.

Islam takes humanity’s natural instincts and needs into consideration. It is not like the human-made (or modified) religions or systems that place unnatural constraints on people or set them free without any restrictions. Men are inclined toward women and women are inclined toward men. Marriage fulfills this desire and channels it in ways pleasing to God and befitting humanity’s honor and mission in life.

The desire of men and women for each other needs to be fulfilled. If left unfulfilled it will be a source of discord and disruption in society. For this reason. God’s Messenger upon him be peace and blessings ordered all men who can meet the responsibilities of marriage to get married: “Whichever of you is capable should marry for it will aid him in lowering his gaze and guarding his body (from sin). As for one who is not capable fasting is his protection.”