Your Soul Mate

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Marriage is a very important part of Muslims' life. It is the completion of a Muslim's faith as well as a natural way to find companionship and solace in life. But what do Muslims have to look for when they're getting married? And is finding a soul mate really possible?

The most important question you should probably ask yourself before you even start searching or opening your heart to a possible spouse is "are you ready for marriage at all?" Some may feel they are emotionally ready to take a partner, but the responsibilities of a marital relationship — spiritually, emotionally, and financially — will need commitment and realistic expectations. You can know if you're ready through prayer, knowledge about marriage by reading or talking to married people, and also by self-reflection.

Ready.. Steady.. Go!

Once you've decided you're ready to get married, then you can turn to the Qur'an and Sunnah of the blessed Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) for guidance on how you can find that soul mate.

Being in a marriage should include mercy, appreciation, love, affection, and compassion, and these things can be fostered before marriage in simple ways, like talking to the person to see if he or she is attractive to you, or that his or her attitudes toward treating you as an individual appeal to you. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) encouraged a man who wanted to marry a certain lady to go and look at her first. Through this, we learn that fostering "chemistry," attraction, and even love for the person we are about to marry is very important.

You Complete Me

Feelings are an important factor in getting to know your future partner, but it's always important to balance it with advice from family and friends and with a sense of intellect. Almighty Allah has advised us to marry those who are religious and have good manners.

Ultimately, you have to be able to ask yourself "can this person help complete me spiritually (religiously) and also help fix any faults in my personality?" Do not marry someone because you think you can change this person to the better or because you hope this person will single-handedly fix your personality faults. Instead, accept this person's faults and weaknesses, and marry this person for his or her passion to try and change you as a couple for the pleasure of Almighty Allah. Think of that person as your best friend and partner; someone who makes being home a gentle and relaxing experience and helps ease the troubles of your day and life.