Marriage in Islam is a sacred covenant—a trust between two people and their Lord. At the Islamic Center of the Capital District (ICCD), we offer structured premarital counseling through the Office of Imam A. Yaki to help couples build strong, spiritually rooted foundations for a life together.

“Marriage is part of my sunnah, and whoever does not follow my sunnah has nothing to do with me.” – Rasulullah صلى الله عليه وسلم, Narrated by ‘A-isha, its chain is good

Every assignment or responsibility that one takes must understand WHY they are doing it.

1. Every job has a training or orientation
2. Because of the divorce rate, regardless, of secular or Islamic.
3. To protect, by the will of Allah, the future couple by giving them the basic education that they needed in understanding marriage beyond what is portrayed in the media.
4. A support system, rooted in Islamic knowledge, is necessary for young couples.

• Number of Sessions: Minimum of 5 one-hour sessions (6th session optional if needed).
• Format:
  • Virtual sessions are available for long-distance couples
  • Couples residing in New York State must attend at least two sessions in person.
• Timeline:
  • Counseling must be completed at least one month before the nikāh (Islamic marriage).
  • We recommend starting six weeks prior to your scheduled ceremony.
• Parent Participation
  • Parents are required to attend the first session only

1. The Islamic framework and meaning of marriage, including:
   • The Fiqh of Marriage & Divorce
   • How to facilitate a “halalic” walima (wedding celebration)
2. Navigating needs, expectations, and responsibilities
3. Healthy communication and personal growth
4. Conflict resolution tools grounded in Islamic values
5. Building a shared vision for the marriag

• Nikāh Venue: Nikāh ceremonies are generally held in the masjid. Exceptions may be
  granted.
• Sanctity of Space:
  • Because the masjid is the House of Allah and the office of the Imam is sacred, music is not permitted during weddings officiated on ICCD property
• Marriage License:
  • Couples must obtain a marriage license from the town hall for the imam to legally endorse the union.
• Islamic Certificate:
  • An Islamic premarital counseling certificate (shahādah) may be issued upon request after the completion of the five or more sessions.
• Timeliness:
  • Out of respect for all parties, punctuality is required for every session.

Email: office@imamyaki.com