How to fulfill the ties of kinship at weddings without compromising your religion.

I recently went to a wedding with my kids, but didn’t attend any of the functions. Didn’t go to the Sangeet, and didn’t go to the wedding either. These events are like many “Muslim” weddings, filled with tabarruj, music, dancing, etc., which is my main reason for avoidance. Even though I didn’t go to the actual events, I was able to stay at the same hotel as everyone else, and meet with my family and chat over breakfast and throughout the day before and after the events.

It sounds counterintuitive to spend all this time and money and not go to the wedding, but there is a much deeper reason why one should go in such a manner.

The Prophet ﷺ said,

“Whoever would like his provision to be increased and his life to be extended, should uphold the ties of kinship.” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, 5986 and Muslim, 2557)

Many people want to just be like everyone else, but you end up compromising your beliefs and principles. The reality is - you can uphold the ties of kinship, and you can avoid the haram.

My goal here isn’t to brag and think of myself as superior or as some holy, pious individual, but just to convey a simple message that will hopefully benefit many others in sha Allah.

It will cost you time and money to go and stay at the hotel and pay for your own meals while everyone is enjoying the festivities, but you will get much more time and wealth for your sacrifice. 

Allah and His Messenger ﷺ are promising you more wealth and a longer lifespan!

What more could you ask for? Who doesn’t want those things? 

That is literally everyone’s dream!

Remember, it’s tough to be the one who acts “weird” and is all alone, but every change for good has to start with one individual.

And that individual could be you.