Sacred Citation & SourceAllah says: "Among His signs is that He created for you spouses from yourselves so that you may find tranquillity in them, and He placed between you affection and mercy" (30:21). Marriage in Islam is first a source of peace (sakina), love (mawadda) and mercy (rahma), and a form of worship when it keeps a person chaste and builds a family.
Sacred Citation & SourceThe Prophet ﷺ encouraged marriage for those able to marry (Bukhari 5066, Muslim 1400). A valid marriage in the majority view requires the consent of both spouses, a marriage guardian for the woman (the Hanafi school differs on this), witnesses and the mahr, a gift due to the wife.
Sacred Citation & SourceChoosing a spouse: the Prophet ﷺ advised giving priority to religion and character (Bukhari 5090, Muslim 1466). Getting to know each other should stay within the limits of modesty, with families involved. Schools of law and scholars differ on some practical details; this lesson gives the common principles and flags differences without settling them. For your own situation, consult a qualified scholar.