Nikah is the Muslim marriage contract, agreed by both partners before witnesses. The husband gives the bride a mahr, a gift that becomes her own property.

What does Surah 4:3–4 teach about marriage?

Surah 4:3 allows up to four wives only if each is treated justly, and otherwise one. Surah 4:4 commands husbands to give women their mahr willingly.

How do Muslims differ over polygamy today?

Many Muslims point out that Surah 4:129 says equal justice between wives is impossible, so they favour monogamy. Polygamous marriages cannot be legally registered in the UK.

What does Surah 4:19–24 teach about marriage?

Surah 4:19 forbids taking women against their will and commands husbands to live with wives in kindness. Surah 4:23 lists close relatives whom a Muslim may not marry.

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Islam: Marriage and the Family

The purpose of marriage in Islam

3 things to know
Paper 1

Overview

Nikah, Surah 4:1 to 4 and 4:19 to 24, polygamy today, modesty in Surah 24:30 to 33, Surah 53 and marriage, mut'ah in Twelver teaching, and responses to cohabitation and Humanist views.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

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Key term

Why is marriage important in Muslim life?

Key term

What is nikah?

Key term

What does Surah 4:1 teach about the purpose of marriage?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1
Why is marriage important in Muslim life?
Model answer
Marriage is a sunnah, following the example of Muhammad, and is strongly encouraged for every Muslim. Marriage provides companionship, sexual fulfilment and a stable setting for children.
2
What is nikah?
Model answer
Nikah is the Muslim marriage contract, agreed by both partners before witnesses. The husband gives the bride a mahr, a gift that becomes her own property.
3
What does Surah 4:1 teach about the purpose of marriage?
Model answer
Surah 4:1 teaches that Allah created humanity from one soul and created its mate from it. Husband and wife are made to be partners.
4
What does Surah 4:3–4 teach about marriage?
Model answer
Surah 4:3 allows up to four wives only if each is treated justly, and otherwise one. Surah 4:4 commands husbands to give women their mahr willingly.
5
How do Muslims differ over polygamy today?
Model answer
Many Muslims point out that Surah 4:129 says equal justice between wives is impossible, so they favour monogamy. Polygamous marriages cannot be legally registered in the UK.
6
What does Surah 4:19–24 teach about marriage?
Model answer
Surah 4:19 forbids taking women against their will and commands husbands to live with wives in kindness. Surah 4:23 lists close relatives whom a Muslim may not marry.

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