In Islamic traditions, the concept of dowry is not a requirement for the bride's family to give to the groom's family. Instead, it is the groom who is expected to provide a marriage gift, known as the "mahr" (also spelled "mahar" or "meher"), to the bride. The mahr is an essential part of Islamic marriage contracts and symbolizes the groom's commitment to taking care of his bride and providing for her.
The mahr is considered a right of the bride, and it is given to her, not to her family. It serves several purposes:
Financial Security: The mahr is intended to provide financial security to the bride in case of divorce or the death of the husband. It becomes her exclusive property, and she has full control over it.
Respect and Honor: Offering a mahr demonstrates respect for the bride and her rights. It symbolizes that the groom values the bride and acknowledges her worth.
Legal Requirement: In many Islamic cultures, the mahr is a legal requirement for a marriage contract to be valid. It is agreed upon and stipulated in the marriage contract.
Protection of Women's Rights: The mahr helps protect women's rights by ensuring that they are not taken advantage of or left financially vulnerable in the event of marriage dissolution.
Cultural Tradition: The practice of giving a mahr has cultural significance in many Muslim societies and is seen as a way to solemnize the marriage and display commitment.
It is important to note that practices and customs related to marriage, including the mahr, can vary significantly among different Muslim communities and regions. Some cultures may have incorporated dowry practices from pre-Islamic traditions, but the giving of a mahr to the bride remains a core Islamic tradition.
Ultimately, the mahr is a gift that serves to protect the bride's rights and provide her with financial security, rather than being an obligation or payment from the bride's family to the groom's family.