According to the Quran, the purpose of marriage is to attain sukun (tranquility and peace), which can never be achieved through impulsive sexual fulfillment unless it is accompanied by mutual love, affection, caring, and sharing, which are all part and parcel of a fulfilling and productive marriage relationship. Islam, as we know it holistically from the sources, is a balanced way of looking at things.
Following are the 8 important factors that can InShaAllah strengthen a marriage relationship in Islam:
1. GOOD ATTITUDE
A Muslim must always have a positive attitude toward life. We say, “Alhamdulillah” (Praise be to Allah) for whatever He gives us (or doesn’t give us).
2. HELP
Our Prophet (SallAllahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) stressed the importance of men helping their wives and Allah tells us the importance of women being mates and helpers to their husbands. This is a real “win-win” situation, if we just follow it.
3. TRUST
Muslims, men and women are ordered to be trustworthy and follow the example of our prophet (SallAllahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) as the “Trustworthy”.
4. RESPECT
You get respect, when you give respect. This is mandatory for all Muslims toward all people, how much more toward the spouse?
5. JOY
Our prophet (SallAllahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) used to entertain his wife Aysha (RadiyAllahu Anha) and she used to play and race with him. She said, “I used to out-run him, but then when I got heavy he used to outrun me”. He told us to play with our wives and have some fun.
6. FORGIVENESS
Clearly, this is one of the most important aspects of Islam. Whoever does not forgive – will not be forgiven. This comes from Allah, Himself. We must learn to forgive each others for a good relationship.
7. TIME
Spend time together. Go for walks. Take a bus ride. Visit a friend or someone who is ill (you get big rewards for that). Fast together on Mondays & Thursdays if you can. Make hajj – this is a great way to get a “new start” on life.
8. WORSHIP
Our prophet, SallAllahu Alaihi Wa Sallam, used to lead his wife in salat, even though he lived connected to the mosque. He told us not to make our homes like grave yards. We should offer some of our sunnah prayers at home.
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