WOMEN IN ISLAM

jurists have different views to offer on what the minimum amount should be, but all agree that it should be substantial enough for something to be bought against it. There are no traditions that encourage an increase in the dower, whereas some argue for fixing smaller dowers. In all such cases, Islam lays down guidelines rather than issuing strict commandments. It is left to the circumstances of the groom. There is a well-known saying of the Prophet Muhammad that “the best woman is one whose dower is the easiest to pay.” (Sahih Ibn Hibban, Hadith No. 4034) Another saying refers to such a bride as “the most blessed woman.” (Mustadrak al-Hakim, Hadith No. 2732). “The state of blessedness,” according to a third saying, resides in “her being easy to deal with and the acceptance of dower according to the capacity of the husband.” (Sahih Ibn Hibban, Hadith No. 4095) The second Caliph, Umar ibn al-Khattab, while addressing a gathering, asked them to refrain from fixing heavy dowers in marriage. Hearing this, a woman addressed the Caliph, quoting the Quran, “If you have given much wealth to your women, do not take anything from it.” (4: 20). In response, Umar withdrew his words, saying, “The woman is right, Umar is wrong”. HAZRAT FATIMAH’S DOWER There is a saying of the Prophet that “The best marriage with the most blessings is the easiest in terms of provision. (Musnad Ahmad, Hadith No. 24529)