“So if he is able to marry a woman of whom inward and outward beauty is found, then this is true completion and happiness.”

Shaykh Saalih al-Uthaymeen (rahimahullaah) said:

Marriage is intended for pleasure and enjoyment, the establishment of a righteous household and a safe, secure society… So with that, the woman who should be married is one whom the completion of these two goals are achieved by. She is the one described by actual, real beauty and abstract or intangible beauty.

Actual (Real) Beauty

As for actual or real beauty, then this is the perfection of physical traits, because whenever the woman possesses pleasant outward features, sweet speech, and is a coolness to the eye when gazed upon, then the ears incline towards her expressions, the heart will open to her, the chest will expand for her, the soul will find solace in her and the meaning of the verse will be fulfilled in her, where the Most High said:

“And among His signs is this, that He created for you wives from among yourselves, that you may find repose in them, and He has put between you affection and mercy.”

(Quran 30:21)

Abstract (Intangible) Beauty

The abstract or intangible beauty is perfection of religion and character, for whenever the woman is exceptional in terms of religion and character, this is more beloved to the soul and a safer choice for the suitor.

Therefore, the woman who has religion, carries out the commandments of Allah, preserves and protects the rights of her husband, his bed, children and property, assists him regarding obedience to Allah, the Most High, if he forgets she reminds him, when he becomes sluggish, she invigorates him and when he becomes angry, she pleases him.

The refined woman is endearing towards her husband and respects him. She will not delay anything he desires to be expedited nor will she rush that which he wants her to postpone. The Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallaam) was asked, (which of the women are best)? He replied,

“The one who pleases him when he looks at her, obeys him when he orders her and does not oppose him regarding herself or his wealth (and property) with what he dislikes.”

[Collected by Imaam Ahmad, 2/251]

He (sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallaam) also said,

“Marry those who are loving and fertile in having children for indeed I will be multiplied (with followers) and be able to boast among the Prophets (or he said nations).”

[Collected by Imaam Abu Dawood in the Book of Marriage, #2050]

So if he is able to marry a woman of whom inward and outward beauty is found, then this is true completion and happiness.

Success [is] from Allah.

From:

The Concise Manual of Marriage, pg. 17-20