Q. Asalamu Alaykum,

I was just wondering what is permissible at the nikkah? For example, are close friends and extended family allowed to attend?  AconcernedSister

Jazakallah Khair

A. ?????? ?????? ????? ???? ???????

It is very rewarding to invite family and friends. Usually people assume that such an invitation constitutes a great expense, and thus are reluctant to invite people.  The idea of a nikah is to promote a moment of cordial and friendly relations. It need not be expense. Nor does it need to be a fancy event.

A nikah filled with barakah, is that nikah that remains simple and inviting of the pious and those that are most loved by Allah.

Inviting close friends can continue to aid in healthy relations. This does not mean one MUST invite, nor does it mean that those that are not invited should be saddened. There were times in which the sahaba got married, and the Rasulullah(sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) was not part of the immediate ceremony.

Inviting extended families facilitates in bridging the gap between those that are distant. This depends on ones resources. One should not invite and create a burden upon the self.

However, if you feel that friends and family are going to bring you down on this day of happiness, then you have the right to invite them for another event instead as a mere makeup.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.