askvity

Is it Haram for a Woman to Not Get Married?

Published in Islamic Marriage 2 mins read

No, it is not haram for a woman to not get married in Islam.

Islam does not make marriage obligatory for every individual. The permissibility or obligation to marry is contingent upon an individual's circumstances, needs, and intentions.

Here's a breakdown:

  • General Rule: Marriage is generally encouraged in Islam as it provides numerous benefits, including companionship, procreation, and the safeguarding of chastity.

  • When Marriage is Recommended (Sunnah): For individuals who have the means to support a family, possess a natural inclination towards marriage, and fear falling into immoral acts, marriage is considered highly recommended (Sunnah).

  • When Marriage is Obligatory (Wajib): If a person has the means and strongly fears that they will commit Zina (unlawful sexual relations) if they do not marry, then marriage becomes obligatory (Wajib) for them to protect themselves from sin.

  • When Marriage is Permissible (Mubah): Marriage is permissible for someone who doesn't have a strong desire for it but still wants to engage in the act.

  • When Marriage is Not Recommended (Makrooh): For someone unable to fulfill marital duties or who intends to wrong their spouse, marriage may be considered disliked (Makrooh).

  • When Marriage is Forbidden (Haram): If someone is certain that they cannot fulfill the financial or emotional obligations of marriage and will mistreat their spouse, then it is haram (forbidden) for them to marry.

Therefore, a woman is not obligated to marry if she doesn't desire marriage, cannot find a suitable spouse, or prioritizes other aspects of her life without fearing to fall into unlawful actions. The statement in the reference regarding lack of sexual desire is relevant. Someone with no sexual desire has no obligation to marry. However, a woman's decision to not marry must not lead her to commit sins or engage in activities forbidden in Islam.

Related Articles