Is it permissible for a father to postpone his daughter's marriage without a valid reason?
Marriage is a good matter that should be hastened to, due to its role in safeguarding the chastity of both spouses and increasing progeny. It should not be delayed except for a reason considered valid by Islamic law. If the father refuses his daughter's marriage without an acceptable reason, he must be advised to fear Allah and to be gentle with her. If the refusal persists after attempting to persuade him directly or through an influential intermediary, the girl is permitted to refer the matter to the Sharia judge, who will compel the father to allow the marriage, or transfer guardianship to a more distant guardian, or personally oversee the marriage contract. Obstruction (Al-'Adl) is the prevention of a woman from marrying her suitable match if she desires him. If the closest guardian obstructs the marriage, guardianship transfers to the more distant guardian, and then to the ruler or the Sharia judge.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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