Is a father sinful and considered to be unjustly preventing and oppressing his daughter by refusing to marry her to a man of good character and religious commitment, after his initial approval and subsequent retraction, especially since the daughter desires marriage and chastity?

The suitor must be a person of faith and good character. It is not permissible for a father to prevent his daughter from marrying a suitable match without a valid شرعي (Shar'i - Islamic legal) reason; otherwise, he is an عاضل (adil - one who withholds/hinders marriage) and sinful. Some scholars are of the view that a father is not considered an 'adil at first instance, due to his compassion and concern for his daughter's welfare. It is advised to engage in dialogue with the father to understand the reason for his refusal. If there is no valid شرعي justification, the matter should be referred to the شرعي judge. If the 'adhl (hindrance) is proven, the judge will then marry her off. It is important to note that the suitor is considered a stranger (non-mahram) until the شرعي marriage contract is concluded.