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Marriage in Islam: conditions, mahr and the nikah ceremony
In Islam, marriage (nikah) is a solemn contract and an act of worship uniting a man and a woman in love and mercy.
Marriage in the Quran
“And among His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may find tranquillity in them, and He placed between you affection and mercy.”
Surah Ar-Rum, 30:21The steps of a Muslim marriage
- The proposal (khitbah): the man asks the woman’s family for her hand; the fiancés may meet in the presence of a relative.
- The prayer of guidance: each may pray istikhara before deciding.
- The contract (‘aqd): offer and acceptance, in the presence of the guardian and two witnesses, with the dowry agreed.
- The marriage sermon (khutbat al-hajah) and supplications for the newlyweds.
- The walimah: the wedding meal offered to announce the marriage.
Choosing a husband or wife
The Prophet ﷺ said: “A woman is married for four things: her wealth, her lineage, her beauty and her religion. Choose the one with religion and you will prosper” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 5090). He also said: “If someone whose religion and character you are pleased with comes to you, marry him” (At-Tirmidhi, 1084). See the qualities of the pious woman.
The rights of the spouses
| Rights of the wife | Rights of the husband |
|---|---|
| The dowry, which belongs to her | Trust and faithfulness |
| Maintenance: housing, food, clothing | Respect and care for the home |
| Kind treatment (Surah An-Nisa, 4:19) | Kind treatment in return |
“The best of you are the best to their wives” (At-Tirmidhi, 3895). When living together becomes impossible, Islam also regulates separation: see divorce in Islam.
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You may be wondering…
What are the conditions of marriage in Islam?
According to most scholars: the consent of both spouses, the presence of the woman’s guardian (wali), two trustworthy Muslim witnesses, and the dowry (mahr) given to the wife. The Hanafi school does not require the guardian for an adult woman.
What is the mahr?
It is a gift from the husband to the wife, which belongs to her alone (Surah An-Nisa, 4:4). It can be modest: the Prophet ﷺ told a poor man “look for something, even an iron ring”, then married him in return for teaching surahs of the Quran (Sahih al-Bukhari, 5135).
What dua is said for the newlyweds?
The Prophet ﷺ used to say: Barakallahu laka, wa baraka ‘alayka, wa jama‘a baynakuma fi khayr, “May Allah bless you, shower His blessings upon you and unite you in goodness” (Abu Dawud, 2130; At-Tirmidhi, 1091).
Is a religious marriage enough?
In many countries, such as France or the United Kingdom, the law requires a civil registration of marriage. Mosques therefore often ask for proof of civil marriage, and it protects the rights of both spouses.
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