The Philosophy of Islamic Marriage Legislation: A Research Study of Family Stability, Human Welfare, and Social Reform

Marriage is a fundamental institution in Islam that contributes to individual morality, family stability, and social harmony. This study examines the philosophy of Islamic marital legislation, focusing on its objectives, human welfare, family stability, and role in social reform. It explores the significance of marriage in the light of the Qur’an and Sunnah, highlighting its contribution to chastity, preservation of lineage, emotional tranquillity, mutual affection, and mercy between spouses. The study also critically examines prevailing social customs and practices that have made marriage unnecessarily expensive and difficult, including extravagant ceremonies, excessive financial demands, and the prioritisation of wealth and social status over religious commitment and moral character. Furthermore, it discusses the importance of facilitating marriage in accordance with Islamic teachings and considers the educational, legislative, social, and communal dimensions of the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) marriages. These dimensions illustrate how marriage served purposes beyond personal and domestic life, including religious instruction, the correction of pre-Islamic social practices, the strengthening of social relationships, and the promotion of communal welfare. Employing a descriptive and analytical approach, the study analyses relevant Qur’anic verses, Prophetic traditions, and scholarly perspectives to explain the underlying wisdom of Islamic marital legislation. It argues that the Islamic concept of marriage encompasses not only the lawful fulfilment of human needs but also the protection of moral values, the strengthening of family relationships, and the reform of society. The study concludes that restoring the original objectives of marriage requires simplifying marital practices, discouraging extravagance, and giving priority to religious commitment, good character, mutual responsibility, and social welfare.