Meher (also known as mahr in Arabic) is the mandatory gift that the groom gives to the bride as part of the Islamic marriage contract. It is the bride's exclusive right. She owns it completely and can use it as she wishes.
In Somali culture, meher is a significant part of marriage negotiations. The amount and form of meher are agreed upon by both families during the gabati (negotiation) stage. Meher can be money, gold, property, or anything of value that both parties agree upon.
The meher serves multiple purposes in Islam: it demonstrates the groom's commitment and financial readiness, it provides the bride with financial security, and it honours her as she enters the marriage. It is not a "bride price." It belongs to the bride alone, not to her family.
There can be tension in Somali communities around meher amounts. Some families set high amounts as a matter of pride, while Islamic guidance encourages moderation. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The best of marriages are those that are easiest." Finding the balance between cultural expectations and Islamic wisdom is important.
Islamic Context
Meher is a Quranic obligation. Allah says: "And give the women their dowries as a free gift." (Quran 4:4) The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasised that meher should not be excessive or burdensome, and that the best marriages are those made easy.
How Sahan Helps
Sahan supports honest, transparent conversations about marriage expectations, including meher, helping Somalis navigate this important topic with wisdom and respect.
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