Marriage - A Form of Ibadah

purpose of Nik\#, not merely to fulfil one's desires like animals.
The Prophet r has said, ‘When a slave marries, he secures half of
his faith. Let him now fear All\h regarding the remaining half.’
Shu`ab al-£m\n of al-Bayhaq|
• Both men and women need each other. Men generally have a
natural need towards affection, friendship and warmth. Women
represent the pinnacle of caring and love for a man, this quality is
not found anywhere else. Women are generally weaker than men.
They have a natural inclination towards the protection and security
available in the physically and emotionally stronger sex. This does
not suggest that either is inferior to the other. It means that their
roles are different. They are two halves; only in their coming
together is wholeness achieved for both.
• People obviously need to reproduce for the preservation of the
human race and have thus been fitted with carnal urges. All\h I
has compared the married couple to a farmer and his field, and
pious children to a good harvest.
INTENTIONS
Amongst the necessary characteristics of marriage the most important
is correct intention, as this in even conjugal and domestic activities is
rewarded:
• Nik\# is performed to act upon the Sunnah of the Ras[l r who
stated, ‘Nik\# is of my Sunnah.’ The Prophet I at many incidents
has also said, ‘Whoever dislikes my Sunnah is not of me.’
• Perform Nik\# because it saves one from evil and keeps one under
control. Additional benefits include one's heart being saved from
evil thoughts as the eyes, too, are protected from staring at *ar\m.
• All\h I bestows the husband and wife pious children. The
obedience to All\h I that they portray will also earn their parents
reward.
25