Islamic Teachings on Ideal Family Life — Page 22
~ 22 ~ The dowry is always due upon the husband unless it is exempted by the wife. The Holy Qur’ ā n says, “And give the women their dowries willingly. But if they, of their own pleasure, remit to you a part thereof, then enjoy it as something pleasant and wholesome. ” (The Holy Qur’ ā n, 4:5) Again, the Holy Qur’ ā n lays great stress upon the importance of Mahr, and its obligation in the following verses, “And forbidden to you are married women, except such as your right hands possess. This has All ā h enjoined on you. And allowed to you are those beyond that, that you seek them by means of your property, marrying them properly and not committing fornication. And for the benefit you receive from them, give them their dowries, as fixed, and there shall be no sin for you in anything you mutually agree upon, after the fixing of the dowry. Surely All ā h is All- Knowing, Wise. ”