In Islam, what is commonly referred to as "dowry" is precisely known as Mahr (مهر) or dower. It is a benefit given by a man to a woman when they marry, representing her legal right within the Islamic marriage contract (Nikah). The Mahr is a mandatory gift from the groom to the bride, exclusively for her, signifying his commitment and the honor bestowed upon her.
The concept of Mahr fundamentally differs from the traditional Western notion of a dowry, which typically involves money or goods brought by the bride to the marriage, or paid by her family to the groom. In Islam, the Mahr is always presented by the husband to the wife, becoming her exclusive property to use as she pleases.
Understanding Mahr (Dower) in Detail
Mahr is an essential component of an Islamic marriage, explicitly mentioned and mandated in the Quran. It is not a price for the bride, nor is it given to her family. Instead, it is a direct endowment to the wife, symbolizing financial security and respect.
Key Aspects of Mahr
- Woman's Legal Right: The Mahr is the bride's exclusive property, and she has full control over its use. It cannot be claimed by her parents, guardians, or even her husband without her explicit and willing consent.
- Mandatory Obligation: Specifying and agreeing upon the Mahr is a prerequisite for a valid Islamic marriage. While the marriage itself remains valid even if the Mahr is not specified upfront (in which case a "Mahr al-Mithl" or customary dower would apply), its payment remains an obligation.
- Timing of Payment: Mahr can be:
- Mu'ajjal (Prompt/Deferred): Paid in full at the time of the marriage contract.
- Mu'akhkhar (Deferred): Paid at a later agreed-upon date, or upon the dissolution of the marriage (divorce or husband's death). A portion may be paid promptly, and the remainder deferred.
- Form and Value: The Mahr can be anything of value agreed upon by the couple, provided it is lawful in Islam. There is no prescribed minimum or maximum amount, though it should be reasonable and reflect the groom's means and the bride's social standing.
- Examples: Monetary sums, gold, jewelry, property, or even a service like teaching the Qur'an or providing an education.
Types of Mahr
There are two primary types of Mahr in Islamic jurisprudence:
| Type of Mahr | Description
