Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura
Friday Sermon
9 May 2025 / 11 Zulkaedah 1446H
The Marriage Institution in Islam
Dear blessed congregation,
On this blessed day, let us pray to Allah s.w.t. that we remain steadfast in our taqwa to Him. May we and our families continue to fulfil His commands and avoid His prohibitions until we attain His pleasure. Amin, Ya Rabbal ‘Alamin.
Dear brothers in iman,
The khutbah today will focus on marriage from an Islamic perspective. Usually, when we attend a wedding ceremony, the Kadi or solemniser will recite the words of Allah in Surah Ar-Rum, verse 21:
Which means: "And among His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find rest (sakinah) in them, and He placed between you affection (mawaddah) and mercy (rahmah). Indeed, in that are signs for those who think."
My dear brothers,
This verse reminds us that every marriage in Islam should have three important characteristics. The first is sakinah, which means tranquility and peace. The second is mawaddah, which refers to the warmth of love that encourages the couple to do their best in their marriage. The final characteristic is rahmah, which is compassion and mercy between partners.
Despite this, we are well aware that married life is never free from challengesand difficulties. Sometimes, these arise due to a breakdown in effective communication between partners. For example, when one partner is unable to express their desires, expectations, disappointments, or dissatisfaction with the other. They may keep these feelings to themselves and try to find solutions on their own, which can lead to a strain in the relationship.
Furthermore, more couples today find themselves needing to work in order to support their families. Struggles at work and social life outside the home may elevate the stress which partners face. At times, pressure comes from the responsibilities of parenting that both partners must shoulder. Similarly, handling relationships with in-laws can also be an obstacle. If not addressed carefully, these issues can affect the relationship between the husband and wife.
My dear brothers,
The examples mentioned earlier gives the impression that marriage is not a journey that is smooth sailing all the time. Therefore, it is important that each partner possesses a clear understanding of the dynamics of marriage. It can serve as guidance to navigate the stormy seas when it befalls the vessel of marriage.
The first understanding: Marriage is an act of worship.
Various forms of effort and dedication, through time, energy, emotion, and wealth, must be provided or spent in building a marriage. This is all performed with hope that the marriage lasts a lifetime. This effort is truly worthwhile if we view marriage as an act of worship or servitude towards Allah.
Know, dear brothers, that marriage is one of the longest acts of worship we will perform in our lives. Every second, every sacrifice and positive effort we make for the marriage, is considered an act of worship or servitude towards Allah, if intended as such.
Therefore, as partners, we should always view our other half with compassion and kindness. Our spouse has agreed to be our companion in carrying out this noble act of worship together. Our spouse is the comforter and companion in this temporary world.
At times of anger or disappointment, try to remember the blissful and happier moments you shared together. When we see weaknesses in our partners, and as long as these weaknesses do not endanger our lives or emotional wellbeing, adopt the attitude of remembering their goodness and strengths instead. This is the principle encouraged by Prophet Muhammad s.a.w., as he said:
Which means: "A believing man should not hate a believing woman. If he dislikes one of her characteristics, he will still be pleased with another (of her attributes)." (Muslim)
The second understanding: Marriage ensures the fulfilment of human need and desire within the boundaries of a bond which Allah pleases.
From this relationship, it is hoped that affection and love (mawaddah) will grow deeper, thereby strengthening the bond between husband and wife. All too often, when physical and emotional needs are not met, infidelity can arise within the marriage.
In a society with open social environments, it is crucial for each person to maintain proper boundaries in their interactions with non-mahrams. This includes online activities such as communication via WhatsApp, Instagram, and others. On the other hand, violating these boundaries means possibly inviting Allah’s wrath.
Also, remember, dear brothers, that maintaining affection requires effort from both sides. Do not let the demands of work, peers, or child-rearing come at the expense of quality time between the husband and wife.
Dear brothers in faith,
Let us continue to strive in preserving our marriages and families, grounded in sakinah, mawaddah, and rahmah. May Allah s.w.t. be pleased with and protect our marriages, making them a source of happiness for us in this world and the Hereafter. Amin, ya Rabbal ‘Alamin.
SECOND KHUTBAH
