Since marriage plays an important role in enhancing one’s productivity, here are a few steps in the formula towards a productive married life: Marriage has been described beautifully in the Qur’an as: “And among His Signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts). Verily in that are Signs for those who reflect.” (Chapter 30, Verse 21)
How can we find this love and mercy? How can we live in tranquility?
Marriage is a two-way street.
It is not that each person puts in
50-50
but rather both husband and wife need to put in
100 PERCENT
1. Educate Yourself • Learn about the etiquette of seeking a spouse, what is permissible to do and what is impermissible. • Research the questions you should ask him/her. • Learn about your responsibilities and rights over each other. • Pay an Islamic bookshop a visit for reading material on this chapter in life.
2. Decide on Desired Characteristics • Make a list of characteristics you want your spouse to have. Keep in mind that you are not perfect and cannot expect your spouse to be as such. • Recognize traits or values that he/she must have and the areas you are willing to compromise, as no one is completely flawless. • Review this list and make sure it is realistic. Reflect on your own self, what qualities do you have to offer?
3. Consider a Potential Spouse • Consult family and friends for help. • Ensure you or your family speak to this prospective partner’s close friends and family to gain a complete and truthful insight of the person. • Reflect upon his/her character traits, values, expectations, goals/dreams and your compatibility.
4. Pray Istikhara
(The Guidance Prayer) • Pray Istikhara for counsel and guidance. • Seek your parents’ approval and blessing. You have to make sure they agree with your decision. Finally, having come this long way, place your trust in Allah when you have made your decision, and it will be the start of a productive chapter in your lives.
of their effort to make it work. /ProductiveMuslim @AbuProductive
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