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ut the woman can not have two husbands at the same time.
Islam looks upon marriage as essential for both men and women;
it is a contract between two-adults as husband and wife. The two
parties will share responsibilities, so it is preferable that they
should live. in harmony. This harmony is not established without
the consent of two parties. That, is why Islam. gives the freedom of
choosing one's partner to both man and woman, not man only.
Indeed, no marriage can be valid in Islam without, the consent of the
woman. Islam gave this right at a time when a woman was treated
like an object and had no rights or legal status. No doubt the, hope
was that a marriage chosen by both partners and freely consented to
would be a successful one. The Qurlan emphasises the, qualities of -
compassion, peace and contentment, which should be shown in marriagbe
"And among-His signs is this, that He created for
you mates from among yourselves. that ye may dwell
in tranquility with them. and He has put love and
mercy between your hearts" 1
Although parents, naturally. played a great role in the choice
of the husband. Islam sought to prevent their imposing a husband
on their daughter and required the consent of their bride. The
prophet insisted. on a number of occasions, that the girl must be
consulted. Abu Huraira narrated: The Prophet said, "A matron (a mature
woman a widow. or one who is divorced) should not be given in marriage
except after consulting her, and a virgin should not be given in
marriage except after her permission. " The people asked, 110 Allah's
Apostlel How can we know her permission ? 11 He said, "Her silence
2
(indicates her permission)* Furthermore. Islam considered that
marriage which is without the girl's consent is not valid.
1.30,21
2. Sahih al-Bakhari, Vol. 7, op. cit., P. 51
Silence being a mark of a girl's modesty, which was to be respected
in such situations.
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