In a world where the mainstream idea of love is often based on media portrayals and fairytales, it can be easy to forget that love comes in many different forms. For Muslims, the concept of love is guided by Islamic teachings and principles. While there is no single definitive understanding of love in Islam, the Quran does provide some guidance on the matter. Let’s take a look at what Islam has to say about romantic love.

The Quran on Romantic Love:

“And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them, and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.” (Quran 30:21)

This verse not only speaks to the idea of romantic love but also to the importance of finding tranquility in our marital relationships. The Quran advises us to seek out relationships that are built on affection and mercy, as these are the foundations of lasting and fulfilling love.

There is another verse that says,

“And We created you in pairs” [78:8]

This means that Allah(SWT) has created a mate for everyone which includes all living things. There is someone who is created just for you and Allah(SWT) will send him into your life at a right time. And Allah knows best.

What about falling in love before marriage?

‘Love’ is a strong emotion of feeling attached, attracted, or caring for an individual. It is interesting to know that Islam doesn’t invalidate the feeling of love nor reject it completely. In fact, there is a hadith of the Prophet(SAWS) which says,

It was narrated from Ibn Abbas that the Prophet [SAW] said: “There is nothing like marriage, for two who love one another.” ~[Sunan ibn Majah 1847]

This means that the best thing for two people who love one another is to make it halal. Islam is not against the feeling of love but the haram relationships. Always remember a true person with pure intentions will not be afraid of a commitment. If you feel like you are attracted to a man or a woman, convey that feeling to your elders or the wali of that man/woman. Try to work it out with them in a respectful way and make it happen.

It is evident from the prophet’s life that seeking marriage to a person of your liking is permissible. The first wife of the Prophet (PBUH) Khadijah (RA) expressed her wish to marry the prophet while being a widow as she loved his character traits.

But, what if there are reasons that it doesn’t work out??

If it doesn’t work out, accept that it was because of the will of Allah(SWT). You will be heartbroken and disappointed but eventually, things will get better with time. Allah(SWT) is all-knowing, he has the knowledge of the unseen. There is a verse in the Quran which says that what we love, may not be for our good and vice-versa.

“But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you, and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows while you know not.” -(2:216)

Just let it go for the sake of Allah(SWT) and have faith. There are many things in this world that can bring us happiness, but true and lasting happiness can only be found in following the guidance of Allah. By seeking out relationships based on Islamic principles, we can experience the tranquility and fulfillment that come from a life lived in love.

The concept of romantic love is an important one in Islam. Allah has created us with the capacity to love and be loved and has advised us to seek out relationships that are built on affection and mercy.