The Ruling on Delaying Marriage for a Mature Girl in Islam

The Importance of Timely Marriage: A Shariah Perspective

Question: What is the ruling in Shariah regarding not marrying off a mature girl?

Answer: Marriage is a Sunnah (recommended practice), and when there is a risk of falling into sin, it becomes obligatory. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) instructed young people to marry and explained the benefits of marriage, saying:

"O young people! Whoever among you can afford to get married should do so, because it helps him lower his gaze and guard his modesty, and whoever is not able to marry should fast, as fasting diminishes his sexual power." (Sahih Bukhari: 5066 and Sahih Muslim: 1400)

In today’s times, which are full of temptations, no one can remain safe from them. Therefore, when a girl reaches maturity, her guardian should promptly find a suitable match and arrange her marriage. This is the guardian’s responsibility. If the girl has reached maturity and the guardian is not arranging her marriage, and she falls into sin, the guardian will also be held accountable. Allah will question him because he is responsible for the girl and the household, and every responsible person will be questioned about their responsibilities in the Hereafter.

 Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi (may Allah preserve him)

❪Jeddah Dawah Center, Hayy Al-Salamah – Saudi Arabia❫