Should the questioner marry a man who is eighteen years her senior, financially comfortable, of good character and religious, and whose personality she accepts, yet she does not accept his appearance, fearing that her unacceptance of his appearance might be a cause of her misery after marriage?

We advise you to accept the suitor as long as you are pleased with his religious commitment and character. Do not let his older age or your disapproval of his appearance deter you, unless the aversion is extremely strong. After performing Salatul-Istikharah (the prayer of seeking guidance), the prevalent view is that a person should proceed with the matter and not abandon it unless Allah diverts him from it. If you are sincere in your Istikharah, Allah will choose what is best for you and make you content with it.