A man asked for my hand in marriage. He is very honest and a believe. He loves Islam and obeys Allaah's words but he wants to keep our marriage a secret till after we are married. He doesn't want to tell his family about it. I feel very uncomfortable about it. I know his family is very honest and religious people. Is it Haraam to hide marriage from his family even if it's for a short time and even if he has a reason for it?

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger. We ask Allaah to exalt his mention as well as that of his family and all his companions.

It is permissible for this man to marry you without informing his family about it provided this marriage meets the requirements of a proper marriage including the presence of the guardian of the bride and two witnesses. Since this man is sane, he does not have to inform his parents or others of his family about it. However, it is better to inform them if there is no great benefit to be achieved by keeping it a secret for a while.

Allaah knows best.