The purpose of marriage and family formation in Islam

Family serves as the fundamental building block of human civilization, marking the inception and evolution of societal structures. The concept of family traces its origins back to the union of Adam (pbuh) and Hawa (pbuh).

Marriage is the cornerstone of this family unit. In Islam, marriage is not merely a social contract but an act of worship, as all aspects of human existence are viewed through the lens of devotion. The marital journey is a significant chapter in life, aimed at fostering happiness, tranquility, and security. Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala highlights this in the Qur’an, stating, “And among His signs is that He has created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may find peace with them, and He has instilled in you mutual love and kindness. Surely there are many signs in it for the people who think.” (Sura-30 Room, verse: 21)

A crucial element of marriage is the dowry. The Holy Qur’an instructs, “And you shall give women their dowry voluntarily; If they release the bite of Mahr with a satisfied heart, you will enjoy it freely.” (Sura-4 Nisa, verse: 4). The dowry amount is to be mutually agreed upon, taking into account the groom’s capabilities and the bride’s qualifications, with no set minimum.

According to the teachings of Mujtahid Faqihs, the minimum dowry is established at 10 dirhams or two and a half loads of silver, while there is no upper limit.

The Qur’an further advises, “And if you have given any of them immense wealth or abundant money, do not take anything from it.” (Sura-4 Nisa, verse: 20)

It is essential that the dowry is not so low as to compromise the dignity and rights of the woman, nor should it be excessively high to burden the husband. The dowry is intended solely for the wife, allowing her the freedom to utilize, save, or invest it as she sees fit. She retains the right to bestow it as a gift or grant, free from any interference from her husband or others.

In Islamic jurisprudence, the concept of dowry refers to the transfer of goods, wealth, or money from the bride to the groom, either as a prerequisite for marriage or as a customary practice.

Dowry is viewed as a societal ill and is strictly forbidden under Sharia law, classified as a major sin. The acceptance of any conditional gifts at the bride’s home is also considered a form of haram dowry. Demanding dowry is regarded as a more serious offense than begging.

Furthermore, under the statutory laws of Bangladesh, dowry-related practices are punishable offenses. While a marriage conducted with dowry may still be deemed valid, the stipulation of dowry itself is rendered void.

Islamic Shari’ah emphasizes that unlawful conditions are not binding, and marriages involving dowry should be avoided. It is our religious and ethical responsibility to oppose the practice of dowry.

Allah Ta’ala advises, “Those who cannot afford to marry should practice self-restraint until Allah provides for them through His grace.” (Sura-24 Noor, Verse: 33)

The fundamental objectives of Islamic Shari’ah, known as the ‘Maqasidush Shari’ah,’ are all present in the institution of marriage: the safeguarding of life, wealth, knowledge, lineage, and faith.

This is why it is stated in Hadith, “Marriage is half of faith; whoever marries has completed half of his faith, and for the other half, let him fear Allah.” (Sunan Bayhaqi, Sahih Albani: 1916)

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also emphasized, “Marriage is my Sunnah; whoever turns away from my Sunnah is not of my Ummah.” (Muslim: 1401)