So how could he get married?
So how could he get married? And where
would he live with his wife? Besides, Fatima (A) is not the type of
woman who can be neglected or looked down upon!! Nevertheless, the purpose of marriage in Islam is to establish a family. The question of sex is not the main goal, rather it is a matter included
and taken care of by marriage. In addition, Islam came to break the
chains and the blind adoption of concepts which deprived many people
from marriage by making it difficult for them to acquire partners; thus,
preventing them from a basic and natural necessity needed for the
survival of mankind. Therefore, thanks to Islam-marriage became an
easy affair. Tribalism and race consciousness were eradicated by the
new religion. The Prophet (S), who was still going through the stage of
building Islam, wanted to set an example through his words and deeds
in this field; for he is the exemplar and model for the people. So he
fought ignorant and infidel customs through his works and actions. Imam Ali (A) finally approached the Prophet (S) and asked for Fatima's
hand in marriage. The Messenger, who has absolute guardianship
over all Muslim men and women, including his daughter, would not
announce his agreement to the marriage without Fatima's consent. By
this action, he (S) made it clear that it is inevitable to obtain the
daughter's permission for marriage, because she is the one who is to
live with the man and share his life. Indeed, giving a girl in marriage to
someone without her prior approval or permission is a clear violation of
her honor, degradation of her personality, disruption of her soul and a
practical declaration to her that she is like an animal who can be sold
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or given as a gift to anyone without the right to state her opinion. The Prophet (S) in reply to Ali said: "Ah, many men have asked before
you and she has rejected them-her resentment to marry them was
clear on her face. Yet, wait until I bring you the answer."
The Prophet (S) left Ali waiting for the answer. The Prophet informed
his daughter that Ali wished to marry her. Fatima did not need to ask
about Ali's occupation, manners, age and other traits; because she
knew all about his talents, excellent traits and long standing service to
Islam. It is for this reason that the Prophet only said to her: "Fatima,
you know Ali Ibn Abu Talib's relationship to us, his devotion and
faithfulness to Islam.
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