Garments for Each Other — Page 27
27 say that it is necessary that every tribe must beat a tambourine. It means that local traditions, which do not conflict with religion, could be adopted to express joy. This provides a light amusement as well and there is no harm in it if it is not an innovation in religion and it does not lead to Shirk. However, things that lead to Shirk or cause conflict with one’s beliefs cannot be permitted. The marriage ceremony has a close connection with religion, which is why the Holy Prophet (saw) advised that preference should be given to the proposal where the proposed spouse is more righteous. It is true, as I have said before, that Islam does not tell you to forsake the world completely but it does not tell you to become so engrossed in it as to forget your faith. It is wrong to think that a wedding is purely a personal celebration and a personal matter. If that was true and a wedding was only an occasion for singing, playing music and making merry, then the Holy Prophet (saw) would not have advised us to begin a wedding ceremony with the praise of Allah Almighty and he would not have directed us to adopt righteousness. In fact, the entire Nikah sermon draws attention towards Taqwa (righteousness). The foundation of every aspect of marriage is Taqwa. Therefore, we should stay within the boundaries of what is permitted and keep to moderation. We should not step out of these bounds to create disorder in religion. We should always remember that a person who calls himself a Muslim should know that the institution of marriage is to spread goodness, perform righteous deeds and to raise a righteous generation. Parents and relatives of the marrying couple should keep this in mind and the couple should also be mindful that this is the purpose of marriage; it is not just for physical pleasures or vulgar fun. The Holy Prophet (saw) married several times for these reasons and he enjoined marriage for the sake of religion. He did not approve of those who are always busy in prayers and dedicate all their time for religious work, but are mindless of their duty