The Criteria for Choosing a Spouse from the Islamic Perspective (Part 3)
2. Vadod and Volod (Being Well-Behaved and Procreative)
The second characteristic of a good woman, after chastity and religion, is being well-behaved and capable of bearing children. A woman or girl who is kind-natured and cheerful, and who is willing to marry, significantly enhances the love and intimacy between partners, providing a stronger foundation for stability in life. Additionally, the ability to bear children is considered one of the commendable and desirable traits in a woman. The presence of children creates a strong bond between a man and a woman; it symbolizes the essence and fragrance of their shared life. Furthermore, childbearing enables the continuation of multiple generations, which is one of the primary purposes of marriage.
A fertile woman can be assessed in two ways:
First, she should have physical health and be free of diseases that prevent pregnancy.
Second, the marital status of the girl’s mother and sisters should be considered; their fertility often reflects her potential for childbearing.
From a medical perspective, a woman who has the ability to have children typically maintains good physical condition and possesses adequate physical capability. Signs of this ability include her competence in performing household chores, taking care of her children, and fulfilling marital rights and responsibilities efficiently.
The importance of the above two qualities (being well-behaved and capable of bearing children) is supported by the hadith of Muaqal bin Yasar, who narrates: “A man came to the Messenger of Allah, peace be upon him, and said: ‘I have considered a beautiful lady from a respectable family for marriage, but she does not bear children. Should I marry her?’ The Messenger of Allah, (PBUH), replied: ‘No.’ The man approached him again for the second and third time, and the Messenger of Allah, (PBUH), said: ‘Marry a kind woman who will give birth to many children for you, because I am proud of your large population.’
