Chapter on the Bridal Gift
Introduction
The bridal gift (ṣadaq)—one says aṣdaqtu l-marʾata, or mahrtuhā—is derived from ṣidq (truthfulness), for it indicates the husband’s sincere desire for his wife. It is the consideration that the woman receives at the time of the marriage contract, or afterwards, in exchange for the husband’s lawful intimacy with her. The term has several other names and dialectical variants. Its legitimacy is confirmed by the Quran, the Sunnah, scholarly consensus, and legal analogy:
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The Quran: “Give the women their bridal gifts graciously” (4:4), and other verses.
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The Sunnah: his ﷺ practice, approval, and command, such as his ﷺ words, “Seek something—even if only a ring made of iron.”
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Consensus: the scholars are unanimously agreed on its legality because of the profusion of texts on the subject.
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Analogy: since sexual access must be lawfully permitted through marriage, it must have an accompanying consideration.
The Sacred Law has set no maximum or minimum for the bridal gift, though it is recommended to lighten it. The Prophet ﷺ said, “The women who are most blessed are those whose dowries are the easiest.” The Five Compilers relate that ʿUmar ibn al-Khaṭṭāb said, “The Messenger of Allah ﷺ did not give any of his wives, nor did any of his daughters receive, more than twelve uqiyyahs.”
Public welfare likewise calls for keeping it moderate, for that brings great benefit to the couple and to society at large. How many women remain unmarried, and how many young men are left without