💍 Khitbah & engagement · #68
A suitor has good faith but no steady job yet. Should his proposal be accepted?
Faith and character come first, but a basic ability to provide is also an important condition; consider his seriousness and plans, and adjust the length of the engagement.
The Prophet ﷺ told families to accept a suitor of good faith and character (Jamiʿ at-Tirmidhi 1084), while also urging only young people who are "able" to marry (Sahih al-Bukhari 5066). He once advised Fatima bint Qays that one of her suitors was poor and had no wealth (Sahih Muslim, Kitab at-Talaq) — a sign that financial ability is a legitimate consideration. Useful questions: does he strive to earn lawfully; is there income even if irregular; does he have large debts; and are you ready for a simple life at first? Allah promises sufficiency to those who marry to keep chaste (an-Nur 24:32). Avoid marrying in the hope that a spouse will change without any sign of effort. See the question on differing financial status.
The Prophet ﷺ told families to accept a suitor of good faith and character (Jamiʿ at-Tirmidhi 1084), while also urging only young people who are "able" to marry (Sahih al-Bukhari 5066). He once advised Fatima bint Qays that one of her suitors was poor and had no wealth (Sahih Muslim, Kitab at-Talaq) — a sign that financial ability is a legitimate consideration. Useful questions: does he strive to earn lawfully; is there income even if irregular; does he have large debts; and are you ready for a simple life at first? Allah promises sufficiency to those who marry to keep chaste (an-Nur 24:32). Avoid marrying in the hope that a spouse will change without any sign of effort. See the question on differing financial status.
Sources
Jami' at-Tirmidhi 1084 (hasan)Sahih al-Bukhari 5066Surah an-Nur 24:32