Islamic marriage contracts (Nikah)

Islamic marriage contracts, known as Nikah, are formal agreements that outline the responsibilities and rights of both partners in a marriage according to Islamic law (Sharia). The Nikah involves a proposal (ijab) and acceptance (qabul), often in the presence of witnesses. It typically includes a stipulated dowry (mahr), which is a gift from the husband to the wife. The contract emphasizes mutual consent, respect, and commitment, while also allowing for specific terms tailored to the couple's preferences, reflecting the balance of individual rights and communal values in an Islamic marriage.