Marriage

Marriages in Islam are often arranged (by the two families of the bride and groom) but these can only take place with the consent of both parties. If someone was forced to marry then the marriage would be invalid.

Courting or ‘going out together’ is not permitted and the couple who may be married are only allowed to meet each other when members of their families are present.

Muslim men may have up to four wives but each wife must be treated equally and his other wives must agree before a Muslim may take another wife.

A Muslim man may marry a Jew or a Christian but a Muslim woman may only marry a Muslim man.

The ceremony

A muslim wedding

A Muslim marriage usually takes place in the home or the mosque, the Muslim place of worship, and the couple give their consent before a minimum of two witnesses. The Aqd Nikah (marriage contract) is read. The bride and groom sign three copies of this to show that they have agreed to the marriage. The contract also specifies the mahr, (dowry) which the groom gives to the bride and which belongs to her for life.

During the ceremony:

• there are readings from the Qur’an [Qur'an: That which is read or recited. The Divine Book revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Allah's final revelation to humankind. ]
• the people present pray for the couple, wishing them wealth, long life and many children
• there may be a wedding feast called a walimah.