🧭 Preparation & choosing a spouse · #17

Is it wrong if I choose a spouse for their looks?

It is not wrong to take looks into account, because they are among the reasons mentioned by the Prophet ﷺ, but they must not outweigh religion and character.
The hadith of the four criteria mentions beauty as one factor, and Islam encourages seeing a prospective spouse so that attraction can arise. But he advised: give priority to the one who is religious. Looks change with age, whereas character determines long-term happiness. Allah does not look at our appearance and wealth, but at our hearts and deeds. So keep a balance — make sure there is healthy attraction, but let religion, character and compatibility be the deciding factors. See Criteria.

Sources

Sahih al-Bukhari 5090Sahih Muslim, Kitab ar-Radha'Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Birr wa as-Silah wa al-Adab

← PreviousMy parents are forcing me to marry their choice. What is the ruling?Next →Can one marry someone much richer or much poorer?

Related questions

Must I tell my future spouse about my illness?Yes, an illness or defect that affects the marriage must be disclosed; concealing it is deception. The Prophet ﷺ said…I want to marry but cannot afford it yet. What should I do?If you cannot yet afford it, Islam tells you to guard your chastity, fast, and work on improving your means until…My future spouse has a dark past. Should I go ahead?If they have sincerely repented and are now steadfast, their past should not be an obstacle; Allah accepts…My future husband/wife does not pray. Should I marry them?Abandoning prayer is a major sin; it is better not to proceed with the marriage until they have truly changed, because religion…My future spouse has a chronic illness. Should I go ahead?It is permissible to go ahead with the marriage if you know their condition and accept it willingly; accepting a sick spouse sincerely…When I ask people about my future spouse's character, is that backbiting?No; asking about and giving honest information on a prospective spouse for the purpose of marriage is permissible, and indeed counts…

This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

Comments or feedback

Read only by the MYPolygyny administrator — never published.

About Us · Ask · Site Map · Privacy · Editorial policy · Disclaimer