Definition and Etymology
Nikah (نكاح) is the Arabic term for marriage in Islam. The celebration of the marriage contract is called nikah. The word ‘Nikah’ originates from the Arabic root word ‘Nakaha’ which means to unite, to staple, penetration, or sexual intercourse.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: نكاح
- Turkish: Nikâh
Islamic Perspective on Marriage
Marriage is enjoined upon every Muslim, and celibacy is frequently condemned by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Hadiths emphasize that marriage perfects half of a Muslim’s faith. Prophet Muhammad has various statements illustrating the importance of marriage from a religious and social perspective.
Religious Encouragement and Sayings of Prophet Muhammad
Here are some sayings of Prophet Muhammad on marriage from the Mishkat al-Masabih:
- “When the servant of God marries, he perfects half of his religion.”
- “The best wedding is that upon which the least trouble and expense are bestowed.”
- “The worst of feasts are marriage feasts, to which the rich are invited and the poor left out.”
- “Marry women who will love their husbands and be very prolific, for I wish you to be more numerous than any other people.”
- “When anyone demands your daughter in marriage, and you are pleased with his disposition and his faith, then give her to him.”
The Legal Framework of Nikah
I. The Validity of Marriage
Requirements for a Valid Marriage Contract
According to Islamic law, to constitute a valid marriage, the following prerequisites must be met:
- Consent (Ijab and Qabūl): Both parties must declare acceptance of the marriage.
- Witnesses: At least two male witnesses, or one male and two female witnesses, must be present.
- Dower (Mahr): A stipulated dower must be settled upon the bride.
Additional Points
- Temporary marriages (Mut’ah), though practiced in some Shia communities, are a contentious point in Sunni Islamic jurisprudence.
II. Legal Disabilities to Marriage
Muslim marriages are regulated by legal restrictions, including prohibitions related to consanguinity, affinity, fosterage, and certain social statuses.
III. The Religious Ceremony
Muslim law does not prescribe a specific religious ceremony, and marriage contracts are often considered valid without any religious rites, although customs may vary across cultures.
IV. The Marriage Festivities
Festive celebrations of nikah, commonly known as ʿurs (عرس) or shādī in Persian, are diverse and culturally rich. They include ceremonies, lavish receptions, and elaborate rituals that differ significantly across the Muslim world.
Cultural Practices and Traditions
- Nikaah in India and South Asia: Includes elaborate pre-wedding, wedding, and post-wedding celebrations spanning several days.
- Nikaah in Egypt: Often features Massmusic, dancing, and cultural festivities.
- Simple ceremonies: In some cases, particularly amongst lower economic classes, marriages are conducted with simpler ceremonies.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Lawful and the Prohibited in Islam” by Yusuf Al-Qaradawi
- “Marriage and Family Life in Islam” by Muhammad Abdul-Rauf
- “Marriage and Morals in Islam” by Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi
- “Modern Islam and Marriage: Being the Text of the Legal Provisions Associated with Marriage and Divorce in India and Pakistan” by Sayyid Ameer Ali
Takeaways and Conclusion
Nikah in Islam is regarded not as mere legality but a sacred contract enjoined upon every Muslim. Prophet Muhammad emphasized marriage as half of one’s faith, advocating its virtues extensively. Although the legal structures are primarily civil, they actively involve significant cultural and communal participation. Understanding these practices provides a deeper insight into Islamic values and the role of family and marriage in Muslim societies.
For a comprehensive understanding of the marriage practices in Islam, both at a legalistic and cultural level, refer to the suggested readings which offer various perspectives and in-depth analyses.
