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Q&A · Rulings

Is temporary marriage (mutʿah) permissible in Islam?

Temporary marriage (nikah al-mutʿah), a contract for a fixed period after which the marriage automatically ends, was permitted early in Islam but was then decisively and permanently forbidden by the Prophet (peace be upon him). ʿAli ibn Abi Talib reported that the Messenger of Allah forbade the mutʿah of women and the eating of domestic donkey meat on the day of Khaybar (Sahih al-Bukhari 5115), and Sabrah al-Juhani reported that he prohibited it until the Day of Resurrection (Sahih Muslim 1406). The consensus of Ahl al-Sunnah is therefore that mutʿah is haram, and a valid marriage requires the intention of permanence, a guardian, and witnesses. It is only among some other sects that it remains permitted, contrary to the authentic Sunnah.

Evidence — the daleel
Sahih al-Bukhari 5115 ṢaḥīḥSahih Muslim 1406 Ṣaḥīḥ
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Informational, not a personal fatwa. Consult a qualified scholar for rulings on your situation.

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