Question: If the wife forgives her haqq-e-mahr(right of bride price determined at the time of marriage/right of dower), is the husband still obligated to pay it?
Answer: Often, wives are coerced or tricked into forgiving their haqq-e-mahr. However, if the wife willingly and happily forgives it without any pressure from the husband, then the husband does not need to pay it again. Once forgiven, it is sufficient, and the dowry is no longer due from the husband. Allah says in the Quran:
"And give to the women (whom you marry) their Mahr (obligatory bridal money given by the husband to his wife at the time of marriage) with a good heart, but if they, of their own good pleasure, remit any part of it to you, take it, and enjoy it without fear of any harm (as Allah has made it lawful)." (Surah An-Nisa: 4)
This verse clarifies that the dowry is the wife’s right, and the husband should happily give it to her. However, if the wife willingly forgives it, the husband is absolved of this obligation. If the dowry is forgiven under coercion, it is not valid, and the husband must still pay it.
Respondent: Sheikh Maqbool Ahmed Salafi Hafizahullah
Jeddah Dawah Center, Saudi Arabia
English Interpreter: Hasan Fuzail
A logical and theological refutation of Javed Akhtar’s atheistic objection regarding the existence of God and worldly suffering. This piece… Read More
Zina is a debt”, “Remain chaste so your women stay chaste”, “Whoever commits zina, zina will be committed with him”… Read More
Is it allowed for fathers to give all property to sons and deprive daughters? Complete Islamic ruling with Quran (4:7,… Read More
Can you kill a snake, carry a child, clear throat, or silence phone during Salah? Complete list of 20 actions… Read More
Can men & women pray following the Imam from a roof, basement, or adjacent house if they only hear his… Read More
Husband tells wife not to observe hijab/niqab in front of non-mahrams. Is obedience compulsory? Complete ruling on obeying husband, parents… Read More