What is the ruling on commencing an important matter without praise of God?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Marriage
Primary text
It is recommended that the contract celebrant or another party deliver an admonition (khutbah) before the conclusion of the marriage contract. This practice is supported by the Prophet's saying: Every affair of importance not begun with the praise of God is cut short (Aqt'a). Furthermore, every sermon lacking the testimony (shahada) is like a severed hand. These reports are narrated by Ibn al-Mundhir. Sufficing for this is praising God, testifying to His oneness and prophethood, and sending blessings upon the Messenger of God. The preferred method is the sermon taught by Abdullah ibn Mas'ud, which includes the testimony (Tashahhud), seeking refuge in God, affirming God's guidance, and reciting three specific Quranic verses: Quran 3:102, Quran 4:1, Quran 33:70-71.
Supporting text
Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal demonstrated extreme commitment to the recommendation of Ibn Mas'ud's sermon to the point of leaving a marriage contract where it was not delivered, though this was an emphasis on its strong recommendation rather than declaring it obligatory, as he later showed leniency when questioned on its requirement.