—his future children. In such a case, is it permissible to abandon the idea of marrying her and choose someone else for this reason alone? And how authentic is the ḥadith, “Select well for your seed, for lineage is deep-rooted”?

Answer: Yes. A man should choose a wife who is suitable and free of traits that could harm her or her children, and he should look for someone from wholesome, reputable families, for this—by Allah’s permission—has an effect on the offspring.

As for the authenticity of the ḥadith, “Select well for your seed, for lineage is deep-rooted,” it is not established as a sound narration from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). Nevertheless, its meaning is correct, because a person ought to be meticulous in seeking a suitable wife. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Marry a woman of religion; may your hands be rubbed with dust!” Hence, he should choose a woman who is righteous in her religion, sound in her lineage, and free of physical defects, for this influences marital life and, by Allah’s permission, affects the children.

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Choosing Righteous Husbands

Question: I married a man fourteen years ago, and I was unaware that he had abandoned his religion and given himself over to his passions and desires. Day after day my problem with him has grown worse, to the point that I can no longer bear the situation, and I have borne children from this—