Q: I feel your answers on birth control are wrong. Birth control does not exist in Islam. Can you translate the Hadith below for me and give me its meaning. I would like to find clarification. How can one guarantee to find a partner that fulfills the Hadith?

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Answer: It is reported that Rasulullah (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) said: “Marry the one who is fertile and affectionate, for verily I will be proud of your great number before (other) nations on the Day of Judgment.

It is beyond us as to how you would first criticize our opinion then ask us for clarification.

The aspect of birth control does not violate the tenants of Islam, nor does this Hadith conflict with deen. They complement each other, if viewed in its proper context.

Violation of birth control usage would constitute its continual usage without valid reasoning. Rasulullah (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) did not prohibit Azal, also known as coitus interruption. We also gather that birth control should not be used to eliminate childbearing or due to the fear of poverty.

Finding a fertile person cannot be guaranteed. However, recommendations by scholars include: viewing the health of the female, her inclination towards wanting children, the amount of siblings she has, have her siblings given birth and as to whether they have placed restrictions upon the number of children within the family structure.

An affectionate person too cannot be guaranteed, however, a simple observation would be inclusive of viewing the relationship or interaction a person shares with youth that surround them.  The intended spouses treatment of nephews and nieces, siblings, etc. would be one simple indicator. From these interactions one can gain insight as to the level of affection a person possesses.

The above, be it birth control or having children should be inevitably left to Allah (Subhanahu Wata’Ala). If one has children, one should accept it, if Allah (Subhanahu Wata’Ala) has destined otherwise, that too should be accepted. The above Hadith does not function as a burden or a threat to the institution of family; especially when the necessary precaution has been taken to ensure the stability of the family.

May Allah (Subhanahu Wata’Ala) bless you.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.