Age of Marriage in Islam
In Islam, the natural sign of adulthood is puberty, which marks the dividing line between childhood and maturity. For girls, menstruation shows that she has reached the stage of childbearing age. This age may differ from place to place, but it is clear and not random.
Marriage contract
Islamic law (Shari’ah) allows a Nikah (marriage contract) to be written before maturity. However, the couple does not live together until the girl becomes mature. The contract may exist, but consummation (the time when the marriage becomes real, and the husband and wife live together) happens only when she is ready and it is safe for her.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ married Aisha (RA) by contract while she was young. She continued living with her father until she reached maturity. Only then did the marriage take effect.
Minimum age for marriage
According to Shari’ah, marriage is only complete after consummation, similar to Jewish and Christian traditions. Some people believe Islam fixes a minimum age, such as nine years. This belief is incorrect. Islam sets no fixed minimum age for marriage.
The rule is simple:
👉 Marriage can be consummated only when both husband and wife are mature, and when it causes no harm to the wife.
Consensus (Ijma)
Scholars agree by consensus (Ijma) that safety and maturity are the key conditions. In short, Islam protects the dignity of women by ensuring that marriage takes place only when it is safe and suitable.
Collected by : Amir Amin Lone
Read more : Ruling on marrying young women
Also read this : What Is the Age of Puberty in Islam for a Boy?