What Happens on The First Night of Marriage In Islam?
The prophet (SAW) said, “The doors of heaven to mercy will open in four situations: when it rains; when a child looks kindly at his parent’s face; when the door of the Ka’bah is opened; and when marriage (occurs).”
It was also reported that marriage is completing half our deen. That is how important marriage is in Islam.
Marriage in Islam is Nikkhah, and it signifies the meeting of two souls in matrimony for the sake of Allah.
What Happens on The First Night of Marriage In Islam?
The first night of marriage holds significant importance to the newlyweds. It marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. By approaching this milestone with Allah’s blessings and guidance, a part of the struggles has already been defeated.
What to Do on The First Night of Marriage
- Intention
Actions shall be judged according to intention. Set proper intentions, i.e., the purpose of completing half the deen.
- Du’a (Supplication):
Upon meeting as husband and wife, the husband should recite this supplication:
(Allahuma inni أسألUKA min khayriha wa khayri ma khalaqtiha fihi, wa a’oothu bika min sharriha wa sharri ma khalaqtiha minhu)
“O Allah, I ask You for the goodness in her and the goodness with which You have created her, and I seek refuge in You from the evil in her and the evil with which You have created her.”
The wife may also recite the same supplication.
- Two Rak’ah (Units) of Salat (Prayer):
You can go a step further and perform two rak’ah of salat to seek blessings in your marriage. It also helps you connect on a spiritual level and strengthen your bond.
Set the intention (Niyyah) in your heart to perform the Sunnah prayer for the newlyweds.
- Consummation of Marriage:
Consummation of the marriage is not compulsory on the first night; you should only consummate your marriage when you are ready to. Both of you should mutually respect, honour, and understand one another before embarking on this bold step.
When you do decide to consummate the marriage, recite the following supplication before undressing:
“Bismillah Allahuma inni a’oothu bika min ash-shaytan wa a’oothu bika min ash-shaytan fi ma razaktana”
In the name of Allah, O Allah, distance shaytan from us and distance shaytan from that which you grant us.
- Embracing Emotional Intimacy
Emotional intimacy is as crucial as physical intimacy in a marriage. On the first night, the couple can focus on building emotional closeness, expressing their love and care for each other, and fostering a deep connection that goes beyond the physical realm.
- Communication and Understanding:
Effective communication is key on the first night of marriage. The husband and wife need to talk openly, share their thoughts and feelings, and strive to understand each other’s needs and expectations as they embark on this new journey together.
It’s an opportunity for them to express their hopes and expectations and to build trust and intimacy.
The first night of marriage in Islam is seen as the beginning of a partnership built on faith, respect, and love. It is a night for the couple to start their journey together with a strong spiritual foundation, seeking blessings from Allah and committing to a life of mutual support and understanding.
