Finding a Marriage Partner

Q. What are Islamically permissible ways in which to meet women with
intention for marriage , if you live in a society where your best
opportunity to meet a muslim woman is at the workplace or in a
secondary school?
A. Marriage is an institution which is filled with respect and dignity
and so, everything that leads to marriage must be filled with the
same. Dating, as we have seen brings about a great amount of sins and
wrongdoings on the partof the boy and the girl. Assuch, a Muslim boy
or girlmust never be trapped into this web of satan.
In accordance to the guidelines given in the beautiful teachings of
Islam , when one seeks a partner in marriage, he/she must consult with
the parents or other close family members. The parents/guardian etc.
will then enquire from others in the community and beyond about a good
boy or girl for their son/daughter. When a certain match is found, the
parents/guardian should enquire about the traits, habits and character
of that person. If they are pleased, then they wouldintroduce the boy
to the girl. At this point the boy and girl may speak to each other
within the presence of blood relatives and may then decide that they
would marry each other. Even atthis time, it is not permissible for
both of them to go out alone, to be in seclusion or to maintain any
sort of relationship which is seen from a husband andwife.
Besides the above, if a boy happens to see a girl which may interest
him or vice versa, then they must consult with their parents and
proceed thereafter in accordance to the guidelines given inthe
beautiful teachings of Islam. If the parent finds it difficult to find
a suitable wife/husband for their son/daughter (through their
contacts) then they may continue to enquire from friends, the Imam,
persons in the community or even distant relatives.
And Allah knows best.