Dower, also known as mahr, is a fundamental part of Muslim marriage under Islamic law.
It is a financial gift from the husband to the wife, which is paid to the wife either at the time of marriage or during the marriage as agreed by the parties.
The dower serves as a form of financial security for the wife and it is considered her personal property, which she can use as she pleases.
There are Two Types of Dower under Muslim Law:
- Prompt or Immediate Dower: This is a dower that is paid to the bride immediately upon the conclusion of the marriage contract or at the time of the marriage ceremony. The amount of the prompt dower is usually specified in the marriage contract, and it may be paid in cash or property.
- Deferred Dower: This is a dower that is payable at a later time, such as upon the dissolution of the marriage, or at a specified time during the marriage. The amount of the deferred dower may also be specified in the marriage contract, or it may be left to the discretion of the parties.
Under Muslim law, the dower is considered a mandatory element of the marriage contract. Its payment is a religious obligation and failure to pay it may invalidate the marriage. The amount of the dower may vary depending on the parties’ agreement, but it must be reasonable and within the means of the husband to pay.
The dower serves several purposes, including providing financial security for the wife, recognizing her status in the marriage, and symbolizing the husband’s commitment to providing for her. It is an important aspect of Muslim marriage and helps to establish a sense of mutual respect and responsibility between the husband and wife.
