FORCED MARRIAGES:
Lack of correct knowledge and understanding about Islam and insistence on cultural practices and local customs may be the reason for doing un-Islamic things; i.e. forcing both male and female into a marriage that they are clearly unhappy with. In Islam there is no room for forced marriages; to force anyone into a marriage is not lawful in Islam. Despite parents wanting what is best for their children; parents must understand that they will be accountable on the Day of Judgement if such an act is carried out. Freely-given consent is vital as it is a basic requirement in Islamic marriage. Muslims must follow the teachings of the Holy Quran in light of the sunnah of our Prophet (P.B.U.H). Without consent the marriage is nullified. Our Prophet (P.B.U.H) made this clear:
Khansa bint khidhan al-Ansariya narrated that her father gave her in marriage when she was a matron (childless woman, divorcee, or widow) and she disliked that marriage. So, she went to Our Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) who declared the marriage void and null.
Many problems and dilemmas have arisen in society causing grief, anxiety and misery due to forced marriages. Forced marriages are a cause of divorce and divorce is the least dedsirable of all lawful acts. As our Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H) states:
‘Of all things which have been permitted ; divorce is the most hated by Allah’.
Therefore the eradication of such an act will be both beneficial for the married couple and parents. |
