Choosing the Right Spouse.

Choosing the Right Spouse.

These are the main characteristics that should be sought when choosing a spouse:

Deen (way of Life as prescribed by Allah): It is the first thing to look for according to The Prophet Muhammad (May Allah honor Him and grant Him peace) instructions. This does not mean choosing any Muslim but the one who applies Islam throughout his daily life, not just a nominal Muslim.

Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "A woman is married for four things, i.e., her wealth, her family status, her beauty and her religion. So you should marry the religious woman (otherwise) you will be a losers.
(Sahih Al-Bukhari, Book #62, Hadith #27)

Conduct: A woman or a man who has good manners is considered as a grace from Allah (Glory be to Him).. The Prophet Muhammad (May Allah honor Him and grant Him peace) said, 'There is nothing more beneficial to a believer next to the fear of Allah (Glory be to Him). than a pious wife. When he commands her, she obeys him; and when he looks at her, she pleases him; and when he swears by Allah (Glory be to Him) that she should do a thing, she would; and when he is away, she guards herself and his property.' Musnad Ahmad Vol 2:251; classed as hasan by al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Saheehah 1838.

This also applies to the husband with regard to good conduct and fear of Allah (Glory be to Him), for raising children requires the efforts of both parents not just one of them. Since man is the head of the family, it is his responsibility to choose a pious woman to be the mother of his children. Allah (Glory be to Him). states,
'O you who believe, protect yourselves and your families from a fire whose fuel is man and stones.' (Qur’an Surah Tahrim 66:6)

And Allah (Glory be to Him) says, 'And enjoin as-Salaat (the prayer) on your family, and be patient in offering them [i.e. the Salaat - prayers].' Qur’an.Surah Taha 20:132