arabic

Islamic Marriage – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Marriage (NikAH) in Islam?

Marriage in Islam is a legally binding religious contract between a man and a woman. Its purpose is to lawfully permit marital relations and to establish a Muslim family based on love, mercy, and mutual responsibility, in accordance with Shari’ah.

Evidence:
Allah تعالى says: “And among His signs is that He created for you spouses from among yourselves that you may find tranquility in them, and He placed between you affection and mercy.” (Qur’an 30:21)

What Are the Pillars (ArkAn) of an Islamic Marriage?

The pillars of marriage are the essential elements without which the marriage contract is invalid. According to the majority of scholars, they are:

  1. Offer and Acceptance (Ijab wa Qabul): A clear verbal exchange indicating marriage.

  2. The Guardian (Wali): The legal guardian who contracts the marriage on behalf of the woman.

  3. Two Witnesses: Two upright Muslim witnesses to publicize and validate the marriage.

Evidence:
The Prophet ﷺ said: “There is no marriage without a guardian and two upright witnesses.” (Reported by al-Bayhaqi; authenticated by al-Albani)

What Are the Conditions for a Valid Islamic Marriage?

For a marriage contract to be valid, the following conditions must be met:

  • Clear identification of both spouses

  • Mutual consent without coercion

  • Absence of legal (Shar’i) impediments

  • Presence of the guardian (wali)

  • Presence of two witnesses

  • Specification or agreement upon the dowry (mahr)

Evidence for Consent:
The Prophet ﷺ said: “A previously married woman may not be married until she is consulted, and a virgin may not be married until her permission is sought.” (Agreed upon)

What Is the Dowry (Mahr) in Islam?

The dowry is a mandatory right given to the wife as an honor and obligation. It may be paid immediately or deferred, as agreed by both parties.

Evidence:
Allah تعالى says: “And give the women their dowries graciously.” (Qur’an 4:4)

Is a Marriage Valid Without a Guardian (WalI)?

A marriage is not valid without a guardian (Wali).

Evidence:
The Prophet ﷺ said: “There is no marriage without a guardian.” (Reported by Abū Dāwūd and al-Tirmidhī)

Is It Required for the Husband to Be A Muslim for the Marriage to Be Valid?

Yes. If the woman is Muslim, the husband must be Muslim. A Muslim woman may not marry a non-Muslim man by scholarly consensus.

Is It Required for the Wife to Be A Muslim for the Marriage to Be Valid?

Islam is not required if the husband is Muslim and the wife is a People of the Book (Jewish or Christian) woman.

Evidence:
Allah تعالى says: “And [lawful to you are] chaste women from the believers and chaste women from those who were given the Scripture before you.” (Qur’an 5:5)