What are temporary marriages and how are they different from permanent ones?

Temporary marriages, known as "Mut'a" in Islamic jurisprudence, differ significantly from permanent marriages in several key aspects. In a temporary marriage, the duration is predefined and can vary based on mutual agreement between the parties involved. This arrangement allows individuals to engage in a marital relationship without the long-term commitment typical of permanent marriages.

In Surah Al-Baqara, Allah outlines some aspects of marriage and divorce, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and respect for one another in relationships. For instance, And if he hath divorced her (the third time), then she is not lawful unto him thereafter until she hath wedded another husband. 2:230. This verse highlights the rules surrounding divorce and remarriage, which are essential to understanding the nature of both permanent and temporary unions.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is reported to have addressed the concept of temporary marriage directly. In a narration from Sahih al-Bukhari, it is stated: "While we were in an army, Allah's Apostle came to us and said, 'You have been allowed to do the Mut'a (marriage), so do it.' Salama bin Al-Akwa' said: Allah's Apostle's said, 'If a man and a woman agree (to marry temporarily), their marriage should last for three nights, and if they like to continue, they can do so; and if they want to separate, they can do so.' I do not know whether that was only for us or for all the people in general. Abu Abdullah said: 'Ali made it clear that the Prophet said, The Mut'a marriage has been cancelled (made unlawful).' Sahih al-Bukhari 62:52. This narration illustrates the permissibility of temporary marriage during the Prophet's time, although it is noted that this practice later faced prohibition.

From a Shia perspective, the Imam in Al-Kafi outlines a key difference concerning conditions of the marriage. He states, Any condition before marriage becomes invalid by marriage and the condition after marriage is permissible. He (the Imam) said, 'If time limit is mentioned it is al-Mut‘ah (advantageous marriage) and if time limit is not mentioned it is permanent.' Al-Kafi 99:9897. This distinction indicates that setting a time limit is a defining characteristic of temporary marriage, whereas permanent marriage does not include such stipulations.

Thus, the core difference lies in the commitment duration and the conditions surrounding the marriage. Temporary marriage serves specific needs for individuals, particularly in circumstances where a long-term commitment may not be feasible, while permanent marriage is intended for creating lasting family structures.