Question:

The amount paid by the husband to the wife at the time of marriage in Muslim Law is known as?

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Mehr is not a price for the bride; it is a mark of respect and a legal debt that the husband must pay. It is unique to Muslim personal law.
Updated On: Jun 30, 2026
  • Dowry
  • Mehr
  • Nafaqah
  • Hiba
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Concept: In Muslim Law, marriage (Nikah) is a civil contract. 'Mehr' (Dower) is an essential element of this contract.

Legal Status: It is a sum of money or property that the wife is entitled to receive from the husband in consideration of the marriage.

Purpose: It provides financial security to the wife and acts as a check on the husband's power of arbitrary divorce.

Step 1: Distinguishing Mehr from other terms.

Nafaqah refers to maintenance (food, clothing, lodging) provided by the husband.

Hiba is a pure gift made without any consideration.

Dowry is a social evil (Dahej) which is illegal under the Dowry Prohibition Act.

Step 2: Defining the dower obligation.
The amount settled at the time of marriage is specifically called

Mehr. It can be 'Prompt' (payable immediately) or 'Deferred' (payable on death or divorce). Unlike dowry, Mehr is a legal right of the wife and a debt owed by the husband.
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