“And among His Signs is this: that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility with them”.
Translation of the Holy Qur’an 30:21
The above verse from the Quran highlights one of the signs of Allah’s creation and wisdom in establishing the institution of marriage. It emphasizes that Allah has created marriage for human beings as a special blessing and sign of His kindness, generosity, and mercy to find tranquility, peace, and comfort in the companionship of one’s spouse. Through healthy marriages, we can experience emotional, physical, and spiritual tranquility that comes from the companionship, love, and support of a lifelong partner.
Through MANA’s ongoing Healthy Marriage Virtual Town Hall series, we have been striving to have meaningful conversations that strengthen marriages within the African-American Muslim community. Our distinguished panelists have shared a wealth of knowledge, including Imams, counselors, and community leaders, who have delved into various aspects of healthy relationships based on Islamic teachings and personal experiences.
In the first Town Hall session, the emphasis was on understanding and embodying the prophetic model of marriage, drawing inspiration from the qualities demonstrated by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who demonstrated care, compassion, and respect in his marital relationships. Panelists included Imam Nadim Ali, Imam Tariq Khan, and Sr. Naamau Tahiru who highlighted the importance of premarital counseling, character references, and the need for individuals to possess both religious knowledge and emotional maturity before entering into marriage. Addressing the challenges faced by African-American Muslim families, the discussion aimed to provide guidance that promotes healthier marriages.
Subsequently, the second town hall explored key themes essential for fostering strong marriages, including mutual respect, individual health, and effective communication. Looking at the prophetic model, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) placed great emphasis on communication, conflict resolution, and mutual understanding between spouses and encouraged intimacy, affection, and fulfillment of each other’s rights and needs within marriage.
The panelists were Imam Nadim Ali, Shaykh Mateen Sabree, and Dr. Aneesah Nadir. The conversation underscored the significance of self-awareness, self-respect, and coping with personal traumas before marriage to avoid bringing unresolved issues into marital relationships. The importance of premarital counseling was reiterated, along with discussions on cultural challenges and building strong communities through nurturing healthy marriages and individuals.
The third Town Hall session focused on the importance of understanding the prophetic model of marriage in creating strong communities emphasizing effective communication, premarital counseling, and the role of romance and affection in relationships. Drawing on the examples set by Prophet Muhammad as a “perfect husband,” the panelists provided valuable insights for participants to nurture healthier marriages informed by our Islamic principles and personal development.
Overall, the town hall series has served as a valuable platform to engage in discussions surrounding marriage, relationships, and personal growth. By addressing pertinent issues, providing guidance, and encouraging active participation, we pray it has played a pivotal role in promoting healthier marriages and building stronger communities.
As the conversations continue, there is optimism for further growth, understanding, and support within the community to foster fulfilling and lasting marital relationships.
The next town hall will take place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM EST. The invited panelists are Imam Nadim Ali, Imam Sulaimaan Hamed, Sr. Naamau Tahira, Sr. Naaila Moumaris-Clay, and Sr. Stephanie Bonner. They are all professionals in marriage and/or family counseling. Here is the link to register.
