Answered by Ustadha Raidah Shah Idil
Question: Dear Scholars,
I am a 55 year old woman, my cousin is 50 years old and has talked about marrying each other. We are both divorced. Is having a younger husband advisable or something to avoid even if it’s allowed? What are the main issues we have to consider?
Answer: Assalamualaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,
I pray this finds you in the best of health and states.
Permissibility
Marrying a younger man is permissible in Islam, as seen by the example of Prophet Muhammad (upon him be blessings and peace) and his first wife, our Lady Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her).
There is no prerequisite for ‘romantic love’ before marriage; that will inshaAllah grow after marriage.
“And among His signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your hearts. Verily in that are signs for those who reflect.” [Quran 30:21]
Issues to consider
Depending on your cultural background and norms, there may be some concerns from family members about you marrying a younger man. If there are any, then it would be advisable for you to reassure them with wisdom and tact.
To help you decide what to do next in your decision-making process, please consider studying the free course – Islamic Marriage: Guidance for Successful Marriage and Married Life – SeekersGuidance –
Please refer to the following links:
What Does Islam Say About Marrying an Older Person?
Following Istikhara in Pursuing Marriage
Marriage Decision: Following One’s Heart
Raidah Shah Idil
Checked & Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani.