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Mithaqميثاق

المهر

Mahr — the bride's right

Mahr is the gift the groom gives to the bride as a required part of the marriage contract. It belongs solely to her, not to her family, and reflects the seriousness of the union.

What to know

  • It's obligatory: No valid nikah exists without an agreed mahr.
  • Her right alone: Mahr is the bride's property to keep, spend, or invest.
  • Any form: Money, gold, property, or even teaching Qur'an — whatever is agreed.
  • Prompt or deferred: It can be paid at the contract or deferred; often it's a mix.

Choosing an amount

The Prophet ﷺ encouraged reasonable mahr — the best marriage is the easiest one. Discuss it openly, keep it within the groom's real means, and honor the bride's dignity without turning it into a burden.