Better to Study Islam or Get Married?
Question
One year ago, I converted to Islam. Praise be to God I have continued to gain knowledge about the religion and I am at a point where I would like to be married. I have muslim friend who has a sister who is also looking to be married. As much as I would like to be married I have recently been considering going to study abroad at an Islamic University (i.e. at Mecca or Medinah). I am nearing a completion of my undergraduate studies and this is a chance to study Islam yet I understand the benefits of getting married. I am writing to seek advice on which would be more beneficial for a person of my age (21) to get married or study the religion abroad, whereas it is not possible to do both.
Response
I hope Islam is satisfying your spiritual as well as psychological needs. I also hope that you succeed in this quest and God shows you the path of His liking.
My understanding on such issues is that either of the options could be the correct one for you, and it really is you who will have to make this decision. Sometimes, we do really need to get married and at that time, it has far more importance than other things. At other times, it is our need that we involve ourselves more in religion and its study and at that time marriage can wait for sometime until we are satisfied.
It is you who will have to determine what you need most at this point, and what will be the consequences of each of your actions in this world as well as, more importantly, in the Hereafter. Based on this analysis, I think you shall have to decide.
For me, in such situations, istikhara has been helpful and it usually does help in making a decision. I would advise the same for you and see if that helps. Along with it, I would continue to try to solve the problem and insha Allah, that should be helpful.
I hope I have answered your question. Do consult other opinions as mine may not be the best one that you get, and who knows, someone else may be able to help you better.