In Islam, the Bridal Gift, also known as Mahr, is an essential aspect of marriage. It is the woman’s exclusive right, and Islamic teachings detail important aspects regarding it. This article explains the concept of the bridal gift based on Islamic sources.
According to Islamic law (Sharee’ah), a woman who is an adult and mature has the sole authority to decide matters concerning her bridal gift. This right is not extended to her guardians or anyone else. The bridal gift is explicitly for her, as highlighted in the Quran (interpretation of the meaning): {And give the women (upon marriage) their (bridal) gifts graciously. But if they give up willingly to you anything of it, then take it in satisfaction and ease.} [Quran 4:4] This verse clearly establishes the woman’s entitlement and her prerogative to manage it as she wishes, including relinquishing part or all of it if she chooses.
The esteemed scholar Ibn Qudaamah wrote in Al-Mughni emphasizing this point: “It is allowable for the woman to give up her right to the bridal gift or part of it, exempting her husband from that obligation, or take it in her possession and then offer it to him as a gift, and if she is competent to dispose of her money (i.e. she is a sane adult), then her actions are valid. We do not know of any difference of opinion among scholars in this regard.” He further supports this with Quranic verses, including: {…unless they forego the right…} [Quran 2:237] and the earlier mentioned verse [Quran 4:4], underscoring the wife’s agency in decisions about her Mahr.
Another prominent scholar, Al-Qurtubi, in Tafseer Al-Qurtubi, corroborates this understanding, stating, “The scholars agreed that if a woman who is legally competent gives up her bridal gift and willingly offers it to her husband as a gift, then it is effective and she is no longer entitled to it.” This consensus among Islamic scholars reinforces the woman’s independent right over her bridal gift and her ability to make decisions about it.
Therefore, it is permissible within Islamic guidelines for a husband to discuss with his wife the possibility of her willingly giving up a portion of her bridal gift. However, it is crucial to understand that the ultimate decision rests solely with the wife. She has the complete right to either agree to this request or decline it without any pressure or coercion.
Furthermore, Islamic teachings actually encourage making the bridal gift easier and less burdensome. It is narrated from ‘Aa’ishah that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “The best woman is the one whose bridal gift is the easiest to pay.” [Ahmad]. This Hadith emphasizes that ease in the bridal gift is a virtue, and contributes to a blessed marriage.
Contrary to some misconceptions, the notion that the bridal gift should be deliberately large to act as a financial burden or security measure for the woman is not supported by Islamic teachings. This idea is deemed a false claim and contradicts the principles outlined above that encourage ease and the woman’s right to decide.
In conclusion, the bridal gift (Mahr) in Islam is a significant right granted to the woman. She has the full authority to decide its amount and how it is managed. Islamic teachings encourage ease in marital matters, including the bridal gift, and emphasize mutual understanding and the woman’s free will in all decisions related to it.
For further information, you may refer to fatwa 106818.
Allaah knows best.
