Is what I did — breaking off the engagement after sensing the suitor’s initial reluctance, the deterioration of your relationship, his actions that do not align with your religious personality, and his desire to isolate you from your mother — considered a Sharia transgression, and what are the characteristics of a righteous young man suitable for marriage?

We understand that you were only engaged and the marriage contract was not yet concluded, and that you are not in harmony with this man. It is customary for understanding during the engagement period to be at its best. If this spirit is lost during this period, it is more likely to be lost later. Therefore, we believe that your action of breaking off the engagement was correct, especially since you sought divine guidance (istikharah); because dissolving the relationship at this stage, if disharmony is feared, is less harmful and has a safer outcome.

As for your question about the characteristics of a righteous young man, he is one whose religiosity and character are pleasing.