What should a 23-year-old female teacher do when a suitor, who is not her intellectual equal, proposes to her, while she desires to marry a cultured and religious young man, but no one with these qualities has proposed to her yet, and she fears temptation for herself?

A suitor who possesses good character and religious commitment should be accepted. Do not make academic certificates or cultural background a criterion, for the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "If there comes to you one whose religious commitment and character you approve, then marry (your daughter) to him. If you do not do so, there will be tribulation on earth and widespread corruption."

There is no objection to searching for a husband through legitimate means. If you find someone who has good character and religious commitment, there is no harm in offering yourself to him through your family.

A suitor remains a stranger to his fiancée until the marriage contract is concluded.