Every aspect of the religion of Islam is completely perfect, unique and sublime. In order for one to become a perfect believer and an embodiment of Islam, he is required to practice on every aspect of Islam in the proper manner. Likewise, just as it is vital for the proper functioning of the human body that all the limbs function harmoniously, similarly in order for one to enjoy the true light of Islam, it is essential for one to adhere to every aspect of Islam. While every limb and organ of the human body plays an important role, the most important and essential element is the soul. The soul enables all parts of the human body to function effectively. Once the soul is removed, the human body, with all its faculties, will cease to function. Similarly, though every aspect of Islam is indispensable, the soul of Islam is the Mubaarak Sunnah of Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). When the Sunnah is removed, it is akin to a dead body without a soul.
On the momentous occasion of nikaah, the aspect which creates true happiness and draws immense barakah is to conduct the nikaah in accordance with the Sunnah. The Sunnah advocates that the nikaah should be conducted in the manner in which Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) conducted his nikaah, with the highest level of hayaa and simplicity.
In the golden era of Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), the nikaah would be conducted in the Musjid after which a waleemah would be held in the homes. Nikaah was such a simple and informal affair that only those who happened to be present witnessed the nikaah. Elaborate arrangements would not be made to call people from far and wide to participate in the nikaah and waleemah. In many Ahaadith, we find that Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) was unaware of the nikaah of some Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) who got married in Madinah Munawwarah though he was also present in the Mubaarak city.
A cursory glance at current day nikaahs reveals that Muslims have drifted very far from the standard set by Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). The wedding affair spans over a few days and includes various customary functions viz. a mehndi party, bridal shower, reception by the girl’s party, etc. In most cases, these functions are held in a hall, thereby resembling the kuffaar weddings. Intermingling of sexes, music (or at times playing nazams which resemble music), photography and video filming are just few of the many wrongs that take place in such an environment. At times, the bride is escorted into the hall and walked down the aisle by her father, brother, or even non-mahram cousins so that all may view her. While she is walking down the aisle, if music is not played then it is generally replaced by nazams or qiraat. Sometimes the bride and groom even shake hands, hug or kiss in full view of the audience after which the bride is seated on the stage for the guests to admire. When examined closely, one will realize that the theme and atmosphere of such a wedding is very much like that of a church wedding.
Another new practice which has evolved is that of a separate purda or hijaab section being reserved in one corner of the hall for those who are purda conscious (implying that true Islam has no place in the main function and has therefore been sidelined). Furthermore, the Qur’aan Majeed is sometimes recited on the stage to give the function an Islamic flavor, despite the overall gathering being one of wholesale sin, thus showing gross disrespect to the words of Allah Ta‘ala and Deen. It is a common observation that Salaah is delayed or made qadha in such gatherings. Large amounts of money are spent and a considerable amount of time is dedicated to ensuring that the décor and color scheme are appealing and attractive. The manner in which the nikaah used to take place in the time of Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), with simplicity and hayaa, is no longer seen in the ummah.
Hazrat ‘Aa’ishah (radiyallahu ‘anha) reports that Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said, “The nikaah with the most barakah is that nikaah wherein the least expense was incurred.” (Musnad Ahmad)
How can a nikaah where the commands of Allah Ta‘ala and Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) are flouted ever be a means of blessings and happiness? Muslims should therefore take it upon themselves to advise family and friends to keep their nikaahs simple and in accordance with the Sunnah.
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