In the context of Islamic marriage (Nikah), Mehr (Dower) is the amount agreed upon by the husband to be paid to the wife. It is a significant part of the marriage contract in Islamic law. There are two types of Mehr that can be agreed upon: Mehr-e-Muwajjal and Mehr-e-Mu’ajjal. Here is the difference between the two: 1. Mehr-e-Muwajjal (Immediate Dower): Definition: Mehr-e-Muwajjal refers to the dower amount that is paid immediately or at the time of the marriage. Payment Timing: The full amount is due at the time of the marriage contract or a specified time shortly after. Example: If a marriage contract specifies that the Mehr is 1 lakh rupees and it is due at the time of the marriage, it is considered Mehr-e-Muwajjal. 2. Mehr-e-Mu’ajjal (Deferred Dower): Definition: Mehr-e-Mu’ajjal refers to the dower amount that is deferred and is to be paid at a later date, typically after the dissolution of the marriage (such as in the event of divorce or the husband's death). Payment Timing: The payment is postponed, and the wife is entitled to it at the time of divorce, widowhood, or as per the terms agreed in the marriage contract. Example: If the marriage contract specifies that the Mehr will be paid upon divorce or death of the husband, it is considered Mehr-e-Mu’ajjal. Key Differences: Payment Timing: Mehr-e-Muwajjal is paid immediately, while Mehr-e-Mu’ajjal is deferred. Nature of Payment: Mehr-e-Muwajjal is paid at the time of marriage, whereas Mehr-e-Mu’ajjal is due later, typically after the marriage ends or under other specific conditions. Both types of Mehr are legal obligations in an Islamic marriage and serve as a form of security and respect for the wife.
Answer By Ayantika MondalDear Client, Mehr or Mahr in an Islamic marriage is the gift or dowry paid to the wife by the husband according to the marriage contract that also represents financial security as well as respect. This framework consists of two types, Mehr-e-Muwajjal and Mehr-e-Mu'ajjal, where both differ in their characteristic features and implications. Mehr-e-Muwajjal is a prompt or immediate dower, which is payable at the time of marriage or immediately after nikah. This amount is for granting financial independence to the wife from the very beginning of marriage. It may be paid in cash, property, or any valuable asset that the parties have agreed on. Mehr-e-Mu'ajjal on the other hand refers to the deferred dower; it is not payable in the instant but promised later. This type of Mehr serves as a form of financial security for the wife, especially in cases like divorce and death of the husband. The difference, however, between Mehr-e-Muwajjal and Mehr-e-Mu'ajjal lies in the fact that it differs as regards timing and when one needs to pay. There's Mehr-e-Muwajjal, a prompt obligation which makes the wife financially secure straightaway at the time of the marriage. On the contrary, Mehr-e-Mu'ajjal would be the obligation post-marriage, which brings surety in terms of finance for any future inconveniences. Both constitute very essential elements of an Islamic marital contract and reflect the philosophy of respect and financial commitment forming a Muslim marriage. Hope this answer helps you.
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