Title: What is the Point of Marriage? Question: A person asked me "why should two people marry one another especially if the commitment is just as if the two were married?" His premise was that if two people loved each other then their bond is their love and commitment and that anything they do in this type of relationship (void of any contracts, religious ritual, etc...) is equal to that of a "valid" marriage. My answer would be that in of itself that is some form of marriage, but that's too simple of an answer. If the questioner is correct in his assumption then what would be so wrong in asking a woman to marry you and as long as she says "yes" then that's it? Please articulate on this subject especially in light of the Sha'riah . Ronnie Answer: The Divine revelation does not see marriage as merely a commitment to share one's love and affection with another individual. In addition to being a mere commitment between two individuals, the Divine revelation sees the Institution of Marriage as the foundation upon which the whole social structure is built. Thus, in its view, a strong Institution of Marriage is a prerequisite for a strong society. Furthermore, through all revelations, the Divine law has always sought to promote a stable social structure, which is based upon the values of chastity, loyalty and the protection of individuals against slander, defamation and sexual scandals. It is for this purpose that Divine revelation prescribes the institution of marriage and has passed legislations for it as well as for the potential severing of the relationship that comes into existence through marriage - i.e. for divorce. Thus, Islam has wants the commitment between the two individuals to be socially and legally recognized, so that: a clear line of distinction can be drawn between an actual long-term "commitment" to share one's love, affection and life with another individual and a one-night stand; and legal and social protection can be granted to the rights, status, respect and honor of both the individuals who are a party to this "commitment" and also of those potential individuals, who are born as a result of this "commitment". I hope this helps. Regards, Moiz Amjad March 10, 2002