Marriage in Islam is a sacred institution that holds significant importance in the lives of Muslims. It is a covenant between two individuals who commit to sharing their lives, responsibilities, and faith.
While the essence of marriage remains the same across the Islamic world, the practices and types of marriages can vary considerably. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into five types of marriages in Islam that Muslims should be aware of.
Exploring the Diverse Types of Islamic Marriages
Nikah Marriage: The Most Common Type of Islamic Marriage
Nikah, also known as the ‘ordinary’ or ‘traditional’ marriage, is the most common type of marriage in Islam. It is a straightforward contract between a Muslim man and woman, with the consent of both parties. Nikah is a binding agreement that includes the “mahr” (dower) and conditions mutually agreed upon by the couple. This type of marriage is recognized and accepted across all Islamic schools of thought.
Misyar Marriage: A Flexible Form of Marriage in Islam
Misyar marriage, also known as the “traveler’s marriage” or “visiting marriage,” is a unique and controversial form of Islamic marriage. It is a legal marriage contract that allows a man and a woman to be married without many of the traditional responsibilities that come with marriage, such as living together. This type of marriage is often seen as a solution for individuals who, for various reasons, cannot commit to a conventional marriage.
‘Urfi Marriage: A Less Formal But Valid Type of Marriage
‘Urfi marriage, also known as “customary” or “unregistered” marriage, is a less formal type of marriage in Islam. It is recognized as a valid marriage under Islamic law, but it lacks the public registration or documentation required by many governments. ‘Urfi marriages can be kept private and are often chosen by couples who wish to marry without societal or legal complexities.
Polygamous Marriage: Multiple Spouses Under Islamic Law
Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses, is allowed in Islam under certain conditions. While it is not the most common form of marriage, it is a legitimate option for Muslim men. Islamic law permits a Muslim man to have up to four wives simultaneously, but each wife must be treated fairly and equally. Polygamous marriages require careful consideration and adherence to the principles of justice outlined in the Quran.
Mut’a Marriage: A Temporary Marriage in Shia Islam
Mut’a marriage, also known as “temporary marriage” or “pleasure marriage,” is a type of marriage primarily practiced within the Shia branch of Islam. It allows a man and woman to enter into a temporary marriage contract for a specific period, after which the marriage is automatically dissolved. This type of marriage has specific rules and conditions and is not universally accepted among all Muslims.
Az Zawaj Al Wajib (Obligatory Marriage)
Az Zawaj Al Wajib, also known as obligatory marriage, is a type of marriage that is considered compulsory in specific circumstances. In Islam, marriage becomes obligatory when an individual fears falling into sinful behavior or is financially capable of supporting a spouse. It is a way to safeguard one’s faith and uphold the principles of chastity and modesty.
As it is mentioned in the Quran surah Al Isra verse 32 below.
وَلَا تَقْرَبُوا الزِّنٰىٓ اِنَّهٗ كَانَ فَاحِشَةً ۗوَسَاۤءَ سَبِيْلًا ٣٢
“ Do not approach adultery. Verily (Zina) is a heinous act and the worst way.” (QS 17:32)
Az Zawaj Al Mustahab (Recommended Marriage):
Az Zawaj Al Mustahab, or recommended marriage, is a type of marriage encouraged in Islam. While not obligatory, it is highly recommended for individuals who are capable of marrying but do not face the compulsion of Az Zawaj Al Wajib. A recommended marriage is a source of blessings and rewards, and it promotes a fulfilling and balanced life.
It is already mentioned in the Quran surah Al Maidah verse 87 below.
اَيُّهَا الَّذِيْنَ اٰمَنُوْا لَا تُحَرِّمُوْا طَيِّبٰتِ مَآ اَحَلَّ اللّٰهُ لَكُمْ وَلَا تَعْتَدُوْا ۗاِنَّ اللّٰهَ لَا يُحِبُّ الْمُعْتَدِيْنَ ٨٧
“O you who believe, do not forbid anything good which Allah has made lawful for you and do not transgress. Verily, Allah does not like those who transgress.” (QS 5:87)
Az Zawaj Al Makruh (Disliked Marriage)
Az Zawaj Al Makruh, or disliked marriage, refers to unions that are discouraged in Islam. Such marriages might involve individuals who are incompatible, have conflicting values, or engage in practices contrary to Islamic teachings. While they are not sinful, Muslims are encouraged to avoid these marriages whenever possible to maintain harmony and a strong foundation for their union.
Moreover, it is already mentioned in the Quran surah An Nahl verse 72 below.
وَاللّٰهُ جَعَلَ لَكُمْ مِّنْ اَنْفُسِكُمْ اَزْوَاجًا وَّجَعَلَ لَكُمْ مِّنْ اَزْوَاجِكُمْ بَنِيْنَ وَحَفَدَةً وَّرَزَقَكُمْ مِّنَ الطَّيِّبٰتِۗ اَفَبِالْبَاطِلِ يُؤْمِنُوْنَ وَبِنِعْمَتِ اللّٰهِ هُمْ يَكْفُرُوْنَۙ ٧٢
“Allah made for you a spouse (husband or wife) of your own kind, made for you children and grandchildren from your spouse, and bestowed upon you good sustenance. Why do they believe in vanity, while against the favor of Allah they disobey?” (QS 16:72)
Az Zawaj Al Mubah (Permissible Marriage)
Az Zawaj Al Mubah, or permissible marriage, encompasses the majority of marital unions in Islam. These are marriages that are neither obligatory nor recommended but fall within the boundaries of Islamic law. Muslims are free to choose their life partners as long as they adhere to the fundamental principles of Islam, such as consent, compatibility, and the payment of the mahr (dower).
وَمِنْ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ خَلَقْنَا زَوْجَيْنِ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَذَكَّرُوْنَ ٤٩
“ Everything We created in pairs so that you may remember (the greatness of Allah).” (QS 51:49)
Unlawful Marriage
In Islam, certain marriages are considered unlawful and strictly prohibited. These include marriages between close blood relatives, such as siblings or parents and children, as well as marriages during the ‘iddah period following a divorce or the death of a spouse. Additionally, any marriage that violates the principles of Islamic ethics and morality, such as marrying someone of the same gender, is also unlawful in Islam.
The law of unlawful marriage is already mentioned in the Quran surah An Nisa verse 22 below.
وَلَا تَنْكِحُوْا مَا نَكَحَ اٰبَاۤؤُكُمْ مِّنَ النِّسَاۤءِ اِلَّا مَا قَدْ سَلَفَ ۗ اِنَّهٗ كَانَ فَاحِشَةً وَّمَقْتًاۗ وَسَاۤءَ سَبِيْلًا ࣖ ٢٢
“Do not marry women whom your father married, except (events in the past). Verily (acts) are very abominable and hated (by Allah) and the worst way (to be taken).” (QS 4:22)
Conclusion
Marriage in Islam is a multifaceted institution with various types and forms, each serving different purposes and adhering to specific legal and cultural norms. While these five types of marriages offer diversity and flexibility within the framework of Islamic law, it is essential for Muslims to approach marriage with careful consideration, respect for religious principles, and adherence to local legal requirements.
It is crucial to remember that regardless of the type of marriage chosen, the foundation of a successful Islamic marriage remains rooted in love, trust, respect, and commitment to the principles of Islam. Muslims should be aware of these different types of marriages to make informed decisions that align with their beliefs, circumstances, and cultural contexts. Ultimately, the goal of any Islamic marriage is to strengthen the bond between two individuals and contribute to their personal growth and spiritual well-being in accordance with the teachings of Islam.
