𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻'𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 (15)

Ruling on Delaying the Marriage of a Younger Daughter It is a tradition in our village that the younger daughter cannot be given in marriage before the elder one. Some families refuse to marry off the younger daughter until a suitor proposes marriage to the elder daughter. Is this tradition lawful? What is the ruling on this act? Sheikh Abdul'Azīz ibn Bāz raḥimahullāh answered: “This unacceptable tradition is not permissible. The girl's Waliy (a legally accountable person acting for a woman seeking marriage) has to marry her off if the suitor has a satisfactory standard of religious commitment and good conduct and is accepted by the girl. It is not permissible to delay the marriage of the younger daughter until the elder one gets married. The Prophet ﷺ said: "If someone with a satisfactory standard of faith and good conduct comes to you seeking marriage, then give him (your daughter or sister) in marriage. If you refuse, that will lead to spread of temptation and great corruption in the land." Also, postponing the marriage of the younger daughter until her older sister gets married is a form of injustice. This may even cause both of them to be delayed in marriage or not to get married. The Prophet ﷺ said: “Be on your guard against committing oppression, for oppression is darkness on the Day of Resurrection.” The Waliy is advised to fear Allāh, be keen to give the girls under their care in marriage to the suitable suitors, and beware of delaying marriage wrongfully. May Allāh grant all Muslims success!” 📚[Majmū’ Al-Fatāwā Ibn Bāz, Vol. 20 - P. 420] ➡️@womensbenefits