Question Summary:
I need to know if it is permissible in islam to perform nikah secretly?

Question Detail:

Assalamalykum, I need to know if it is permissible in islam to perform nikah secretly. The circumstance is that neither of our parents are going to agree at this point because according to them we are too young to get married (23 and 18 years old). The reason we want to do nikah is to protect ourselves from haram acts. Can we perform nikah (just the two of us) if we can then please explain how it should be performed. I know there have to be witnesses and nikah has to be announced but is there a way around it. If we can't then please explain in detail what we should do to control our nafs (temptations) because it is really hard for us to not see each other.

Answer :

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful
Assalaamu `alaykum waRahmatullahi Wabarakatoh
There are two aspects to your query

At the outset, you should understand that marriage is a major step in ones life. If this step is taken in the proper manner, one will enjoy everlasting success and bliss in the future. However, if the step is taken carelessly or in negligence, one will suffer the consequences of this forever. One great contributing factor towards the success of ones marriage is, taking the blessings of the parents and seniors.
It is therefore important that you consult with your parents before embarking on any decision. Their guidance and advice will be based on the vast experience they have of life. They understand your urge and also understand your future and certainly they will not advise you something that would be against your interest. It is important that you explain your parents the urge you have to marry. It is possible they do not see the urgency for you to marry and therefore not willing for you to marry now. You may also inform them about your fear of becoming involved in Zina and the implications that would have upon you in this world as well in the Hereafter.
If then too, your parents do not agree and you still fear becoming a victim of Zina, you may make Nikah with the girl. However, the Nikah must be performed in the presence of two muslim male witnesses.
And Allah knows best
Wassalam
Mufti Mohammad Zakariyyah Desai,
Checked and Approved by:
Mufti Ebrahim Desai
Darul Iftaa, Madrassah In'aamiyyah