What every Muslimah should
look for in a prospective husband
So what is important is that the woman should
concentrate on good character and practice of
the Deen.
Question: What are the most important matters
which should form the basis for a woman to
choose a husband, and does refusing a righteous
person for worldly reasons bring Allaah's
punishment upon her?
Answer: The most important attributes which a
woman should seek in one proposing marriage are
good character and Deen (Practice of the
Religion). As regards wealth and lineage, then
these are secondary matters. The most important
thing is that the one proposing the marriage
should be good in the Deen and in his character
- since regarding one possessing Deen and good
character, she will not lose out in any respect:
if he keeps her, then he will do so in a good
manner and if he releases her, he will do so in
a good manner. Furthermore, the one possessing
Deen and good character will be a blessing for
her and her children and she will learn good
manners and the Deen from him.
But if the person is one who does not have these
attributes then she should avoid him -
especially those who are negligent about the
prayers, or one who is known to drink
intoxicants - and Allaah's refuge is sought...
So what is important is that the woman should
concentrate on good character and practice of
the Deen. As regards lineage, then if it is
attainable additionally, then that is more
fitting, since Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu
’alayhi wa sallam) said: If there comes to you
one whose Deen and character is pleasing then
give [the woman] in marriage to him
However if one who is also similar in standing
is found then that is better.
Shaikh Ibn Uthaimeen in Fataawal-Mar'ah Vol. 1.
p.50
