Islamic Leader Defends Marriage as a divine Right, Regardless of Age
A leading Islamic scholar has affirmed the permissibility of marriage at any age, responding to recent public debate surrounding the union of Egyptian film director Enas El Deghaidy.
A prominent voice within the Islamic community addressed growing controversy regarding the marriage of director Enas El Deghaidy, asserting that Islam does not impose age restrictions on marriage provided all parties are consenting and capable. Sheikh Mazhar Shaheen,imam and preacher of the omar Makram Mosque,and a member of the supreme Council for Islamic Affairs,released a statement on Thursday,December 10,2025,emphasizing the sanctity of marriage as a divinely ordained institution.
Shaheen stated that marriage within Islamic law is considered an act of worship, a tradition (“sunnah”), a means of protection, and a source of mercy. He referenced Surah An-Nur,stating,”And marry the young women from among you and the righteous from among your male and female servants,” to illustrate that the call to marriage is global.
the scholar explained that this divine invitation extends to all individuals, irrespective of age or gender. “The need for companionship and affection does not diminish with age, but persists provided that the soul resides within the body,” he noted. He firmly rejected the notion that anyone has the authority to invalidate what God has sanctioned, particularly in a time marked by societal challenges. Legal marriage, he argued, is a pathway to purity and chastity, and society should support individuals in choosing this path for their protection.
Shaheen further elaborated that accepting and even encouraging the marriages of older individuals is a presentation of sophistication and compassion. He described it as “a door to tranquility and compassion, and an possibility to make up for the past of life with sincere affection and generous sociability, which is no less beautiful than youthful love, but rather adds to it maturity and serenity.”
He strongly condemned the practice of ridiculing legally sanctioned marriages between consenting adults, characterizing it as a sign of ignorance regarding Islamic law and a breach of proper etiquette. Such mockery, he asserted, constitutes a disrespect towards divine legislation and the natural order of creation. He cited Surah Al-Hujurat, reminding believers, “O you who have believed, let no people mock A people who may be better than them.”
Shaheen underscored that a marriage founded on permissible terms and good intentions is a covenant blessed by heaven. He urged individuals to refrain from ridicule and instead offer blessings and support to those celebrating the union.
Related coverage includes recent rulings from Al-Azhar regarding financial obligations to family members, insights from Yousry jabr on overcoming anxieties about livelihood, and discussions surrounding the conditions for spousal support. Additionally, perspectives from a former Mufti on the importance of intuition are gaining traction.
Why: The statement by Sheikh Mazhar Shaheen was a direct response to public controversy surrounding the marriage of Egyptian film director Enas El Deghaidy, which sparked debate about age restrictions in islamic marriage.
Who: Sheikh Mazhar Shaheen, imam and preacher of the Omar Makram Mosque and a member of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, issued the statement. Enas El Deghaidy’s marriage served as the catalyst for the discussion.
What: Shaheen affirmed the permissibility of marriage at any age within Islamic law,provided all parties consent and are capable.He emphasized the sanctity of marriage as a divine institution and condemned ridicule of legally sanctioned unions.
How did it end?: The statement concluded with a call for support and blessings for those entering marriage, rather than ridicule, and a reminder of the importance of respecting divine legislation.The issue remains a topic of public discussion, with related coverage focusing on broader family and personal
