According to Wikipedia, cohabitation is an arrangement in which people who are not legally married live together as a couple. This means they function exactly like married couples do. They eat together, discuss their plans, engage in sexual activities, and face difficult times together. Over time, just as you come to know your siblings better by sharing your space with them, those who cohabit also learn more about their partners.
There are habits one might not discover about their partner without spending significant time together (not just weekends). So, it a fact that cohabitation reveals a lot and helps people understand what they can tolerate in marriage with a potential marriage. However, it is not a foolproof approach to a long-lasting marriage, as people who cohabit still get divorced like others. They also encounter issues and navigate difficult periods in their relationships.
The average woman often takes on more responsibilities and may give up their independence in cohabitation, especially since she is likely the one to move into the man’s space. In that sense, cohabitation may not be ideal for a woman who is not liberated in her thoughts and actions. It is certainly not for those who have not realized that over familiarity and exploitation can occur in any relationship dynamic.
I also understand why religious people push back against cohabitation. But, the fact that many of them still engage in sexual activities before marriage makes the point of temptation and "sin" irrelevant to the discussion.
In conclusion, the average marriage in our society faces most of the same issues encountered during cohabitation, even down to finance and property claims. So, what exactly justifies the demonization? I would say, just very little. So, cohabitation can be beneficial for individuals who are genuinely interested in challenging unhealthy societal norms and creating more livable relationship experiences before marriage. Ultimately, I believe people should make choices that work best for them.
May Allah bless you for this, say Amen 😒
One of the best comments I've read so far, no sentiments or picking sides. People should be free to do what will work for them