Is it valid to rectify the intention in a marriage proposal that was initially for a woman's beauty and then for her religiosity, after hearing a lecture advising to prioritize religiosity over beauty?
It is permissible for a Muslim to seek a woman's beauty when marrying a Muslim woman or a Kitabiyyah (woman of the Book), and there is no sin upon him for that. Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani mentioned that the hadith implies the desirability of marrying a beautiful woman, unless a beautiful but irreligious woman conflicts with a pious but less beautiful woman. If they are equal in religiosity, then the beautiful one is preferred. Al-Qurtubi narrated that the meaning of the hadith is that the four characteristics (including beauty) are what people desire in marriage, and it is a statement about reality, not a command. However, prioritizing religiosity is better. There is no need to annul the engagement for this purpose.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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