Maher, also known as Mahr, is a contract that some Muslims enter into upon marriage, referring to a contractual dowry paid by the husband to his wife in the event of divorce or death
. In Islamic law, Maher is a gift or contribution made by the husband-to-be to his wife-to-be for her exclusive property, as a mark of respect for the bride and as recognition of her independence
. It is not a gift in the traditional sense but is in fact obligatory, and the wife-to-be receives it as a right
. Maher can be in the form of money, possessions, or teaching of verses from the Quran
. The amount and timelines for payment depend on customary considerations under Islamic law
. In the case of deferred payment, the portion deferred has the effect of helping to look after a wife after divorce or death
. Mahr is a religious requirement according to Sharia, and there is no concept of marital property in Islam
. The Muslim groom must first make a financial deal with the bride before the wedding, known as Mahr, which is a gift to her that she may utilize in any way she sees fit
. The wife's parents do not share the rights to Mahr, and no one is permitted to remove any portion of it from her but herself
. In summary, Maher is an obligatory gift given by the husband to his wife at the time of marriage, serving as a mark of respect and recognition of her independence. It is a religious requirement in Islam and is separate from the concept of marital property.
