Marriage is a solemn covenant between a man and a woman that is established upon mutual consent and the payment of a dowry (mahr) by the husband to the wife (4:4).
Purpose of Marriage in the Quran:
- To establish a loving and compassionate relationship between spouses (30:21). - To provide stability and security for the family unit (2:233). - To regulate sexual relations within the limits of marriage (4:3). - To procreate and raise a family in a righteous and loving environment (2:221).
Conditions for Marriage:
- Consent: Both the man and woman must freely consent to the marriage without any coercion (4:19). - Legal Capacity: Both parties must be of sound mind and have reached the age of puberty (4:6). - Absence of Prohibitions: There should be no impediments to marriage, such as blood relations or foster relationships (4:22-24). - Dowry: The husband is obligated to pay a dowry (mahr) to the wife, which becomes her exclusive property (4:4). - Witnessing: Two male or one male and two female witnesses must be present at the time of the marriage contract (58:10).
Rights and Responsibilities of Spouses:
Husband's Rights:
- Protection and financial support of the wife (4:34). - Leadership and decision-making within the family (4:34).
Wife's Rights:
- Maintenance and financial support from the husband (4:24). - Respect and kindness from the husband (2:231). - Security and a safe home (4:34).
Responsibilities Shared by Both Spouses:
- Love, kindness, and compassion (30:21). - Fidelity to each other (24:33). - Cooperation in raising and educating children (2:221). - Patience and forgiveness in dealing with each other's shortcomings (4:128).
Dissolution of Marriage:
Divorce is permissible but discouraged in the Quran and should only be considered as a last resort (2:226). The following are grounds for divorce:
- Irreconcilable differences (4:35). - Harm or abuse by the husband (4:35). - Failure to fulfill marital obligations (4:34).
The Quran encourages reconciliation and mediation before divorce takes place (4:35). However, if divorce is unavoidable, it should be conducted with fairness and respect for both parties.