Before you begin
Your intention, your readiness and the prayer of istikhara.
1 min read · Updated 4 November 2026
Start with your intention
Marriage is an act of worship as much as a life decision. Before you look at a single profile, ask yourself why you want to marry now and what you hope to give, not only what you hope to receive.
Are you ready?
Readiness is rarely about having everything in place. It is about being honest. Can you carry responsibility for another person? Are your finances and your living situation clear enough to speak about openly? Have you made peace with the past, or told yourself the truth about it?
Istikhara
When you are seriously considering someone, pray istikhara: two units of voluntary prayer followed by the supplication asking Allah to guide you to what is best. It is not a test that gives a sign. You ask, you keep using your judgement and the advice of people you trust, and you put your trust in Allah.
Involve people who love you
Speak with your parents, or with someone older who knows you well. Those who love you often see what you cannot see yet.
This is general guidance, not a religious ruling. For your own situation, please ask a qualified imam or scholar.