Physical Extensions of Husnu’l Hāl Our trend so far has been...

Physical Extensions of Husnu’l Hāl Our trend so far has been to consider both the apparent as well as the subtle meanings of this noble supplication. In this verse, however, it is clear that the human being opts for the Infinite Beauty and thus the state of physical beauty is not taken into consideration. Nevertheless, it is important to know what Islam has to say with regard to physical beauty.

Does Islam consider physical beauty (whose pleasant ( mubhij ) state the sense perception admits) as insignificant and trivial? Ample proofs indicate that although physical beauty is pleasant and important it should not be reckoned as a distinction in the absolute sense.

Whereas the Holy Qur’ān promises damsels with beautiful features[^10] for the believing men as well as handsome young men[^11] for heavenly women, and therefore does not consider physical beauty as insignificant, it warns the believing men and women that even if an unbeliever is so beautiful or so handsome, you are not allowed to marry with him or her.

A faithful slave girl is better than an idolatress, though she should impress you. And do not marry [your daughters] to idolaters until they embrace faith. A faithful slave is better than an idolater, though he should impress you. Those invite [others] to the Fire, but God invites to paradise and pardon, by His will, and He clarifies His signs for the people so that they may take admonition.” [^12] It should not be misconceived that Islam discourages one to marry with the physically beautiful.