Q 5: What is the Islamic ruling on a young man who refuses to marry due to the increasing cost of the Mahr (mandatory gift to a bride from her groom) and his inability to provide for a wife?

(Part No. 18; Page No. 24)  A: If the reality is as you mentioned, and this man cannot afford to pay the Mahr or support a wife, he is excused. He should observe Sawm (Fasting) to acquire immunity that preserves his private parts (chastity) and virtuousness from immorality. However, if he can afford the Mahr and Nafaqah (obligatory financial support), but he refuses to marry, he is being disobedient to Allah and His Messenger (peace be upon him), who said, “O young men! Those among you who have the ability for marriage, let them marry, as it is more able to lower the gaze (i.e., from looking at forbidden things) and guard the private parts (i.e., chastity, from illegal sexual acts); but those who cannot should observe Sawm (Fasting), for it will remove their sexual desire.” (Related by Al-Bukhari and Muslim) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.