Is marriage a matter of fate or a matter of choice?

Question:
Is marriage a matter of fate or a matter of choice?

Answer:
Both. First, a person must exert effort in choosing and be careful in his selection. It is also a matter of fate and provision from Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He), because nothing happens except by the decree and destiny of Allah.
But Allah commanded us to take the means while relying on Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He). Generally, the one who takes permissible means is successful in achieving good, and the one who neglects the means falls into what is forbidden. Marriage is preceded by choice and good follow-up by the two spouses. Each of them seeks a righteous spouse, asking about him, and inquiring about his character, his trustworthiness, and his religion. The Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) said: The decree and destiny are in the hand of Allah (Glorified and Exalted is He), but if the servant takes the means, he is likely to be successful, and if he neglects the means, he is likely to be left to fail. Yes. May Allah reward you with good, and may He do you good.