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What is the Sharia ruling regarding choosing a husband between two individuals: one who is younger, less educated, does not own a home, and suffers from family problems, and the other who is a doctor residing in Britain, knowing that the girl does not wish to emigrate and prefers to remain in her country where she is fluent in the language and has relatives?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

The most important qualities a woman should look for in a suitor are his religiosity (din) and character (khuluq). A man of religiosity and good character will honor his wife; even if he dislikes her, he will not humiliate her. Differences in age, education, or profession are not religiously forbidden impediments. If the poor man possesses religiosity and good character, he is more deserving of acceptance. Likewise, if the doctor possesses these qualities, and the differences between you are less significant, and you hope for a better life together with him, then he is more deserving of preference. It is advisable to consult trustworthy individuals, then perform Istikhara (prayer for guidance). A guardian should not reject a religiously committed suitor without a valid reason; otherwise, the woman is permitted to refer her case to a judge.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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