Cousin Marriage in Islam

Question

Can a Muslim marry their cousin? I am asking this question because i would like to propose marriage to my cousin, and I have heard it is not allowed due to genetic issues.

Bottom Line

Cousin marriage is permissible in Islam.

Quick Answer

It is allowed in Islam to marry cousins, as they are not among the maharim. The Qur’an (4:23) lists forbidden relatives, and cousins are not included. Historically, cousin marriages have been common in Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. The Prophet ﷺ himself gave his daughter Fatimah to ‘Ali, her cousin. Still, scholars today advise precaution because of potential genetic issues when close-relative marriages repeat across generations.

Key Takeaway

• Marriage to cousins is fully permissible in Islam.
• The Prophet ﷺ married within his family, showing it is not discouraged.
• Famous examples exist across religions and history.
• Scholars advise medical consultation to minimize genetic risks.

Detailed Answer

Allah outlined in the Qur’an 4:23 the women forbidden for marriage, which includes mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, and others. Cousins are not listed, meaning marriage to them is halal.

The Prophet ﷺ gave his daughter Fatimah in marriage to ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib (RA), her cousin. He ﷺ also married Zaynab bint Jahsh (RA), his cousin. These examples prove that cousin marriage is not only permissible but was practiced by the Prophet himself and the companions.

This is not unique to Islam. In Christianity, historical records show that many European royal families practiced cousin marriage to preserve dynasties. In Judaism, cousin marriages were also common, especially in communities aiming to preserve tribal or familial lineage.

Is it discouraged?

There is no evidence that cousin marriage should be the “last resort.” However, scholars mention that sometimes marrying outside one’s close relatives can expand social ties and bring stronger community bonds.

Medical consideration:
Modern genetics shows that repeated close-relative marriages may increase risks of inherited conditions. This is why contemporary scholars suggest medical advice before marriage if both families have histories of genetic illness.

Modern Harm

• Genetic risks: Studies link repeated cousin marriages with higher chances of congenital conditions.
• Family conflict: In some cases, disputes inside extended families make marital problems more difficult.
• Social isolation: Limiting marriage to relatives may restrict social and cultural growth.

Despite this, one-time cousin marriages in healthy families often have no significant medical issues, especially if precautions are taken.

What This Means for You

Marrying your cousin is halal and was practiced by the Prophet ﷺ. It is neither discouraged nor a last resort. However, you should weigh family dynamics, seek medical advice if needed, and remember that Islam encourages building families on mercy and strong foundations, whether within or outside the family circle.

And Allah knows best.

References

Primary Sources

Qur’an

1. An-Nisa 4:23: List of forbidden relatives in marriage (cousins not included).

Hadith

2. Musnad Ahmad 1069: Marriage of Fatimah to ‘Ali (RA).
3. Sahih al-Bukhari 4789: Marriage of the Prophet ﷺ to Zaynab bint Jahsh.

Secondary Sources

4. Al-Nawawi, Sharh Sahih Muslim: Commentary on marriage rulings and family ties.

Modern Research

6. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2012): Genetic risks in cousin marriages.
7. BBC Report (2010): Social and health concerns around cousin marriages.