What every Muslimah should seek in a prospective husband
So what is important is that the woman should concentrate on good
character and practice of the Deen.
Question: What are the most important matters which should form the basis for a
woman to choose a husband, and does refusing a righteous person for worldly
reasons bring Allaah's punishment upon her?
Answer: The most important
attributes which a woman should seek in one proposing marriage are good
character and Deen (Practice of the Religion). As regards wealth and
lineage, then these are secondary matters. The most important thing is that the
one proposing the marriage should be good in the Deen and in his character -
since regarding one possessing Deen and good character, she will not lose out in
any respect: if he keeps her, then he will do so in a good manner and if he
releases her, he will do so in a good manner. Furthermore, the one possessing
Deen and good character will be a blessing for her and her children and she will
learn good manners and the Deen from him.
But if the person is one who does not have these attributes then she should
avoid him - especially those who are negligent about the prayers, or one who is
known to drink intoxicants - and Allaah's refuge is sought... So what is
important is that the woman should concentrate on good character and practice of
the Deen. As regards lineage, then if it is attainable additionally, then that
is more fitting, since Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said:
If there comes to you one whose Deen and character is pleasing then give
[the woman] in marriage to him
However if one who is also
similar in standing is found then that is better.
Shaikh Ibn Uthaimeen in Fataawal-Mar'ah Vol. 1. p.50