Gender Roles In Islamic Wedding
In Islamic theology, both sexes are generally considered to be
equal in value and differences between the sexes are recognized,
resulting in different rights, obligations, and distinct roles. A
woman may propose marriage to a man directly or through an
intermediary. When a couple are to be married, a man must pay mahr
(compare: dower) to his bride. Since divorce is allowed in all
interpretations of Islam, the amount promised or paid to the bride
forms part of her personal property and can be of assistance to her
in times of financial need, such as a divorce or desertion by the
husband. While the Mahr is usually in the form of cash, it may also
be a house or viable business that is put in her name and can be run
and owned entirely by her if she so chooses.
Traditional interpretations of Islam supports the traditional
division of labour whereby women assume the main responsibility for
the home while men are responsible for supporting their wives.
Motherhood is seen as one of the most important roles in society.
Muslim wives and mothers should be granted the respect due to all
women for the struggles and sacrifices they make for the sake of
their families. In most interpretations of Islam, Muslim women may
seek a higher education, work outside the home or volunteer their
services to benefit the community as long as their primary
responsibilities are taken care of, they have the permission of
their husbands and they do not compromise their faith in doing so
(i.e. jobs that require them to dress in a fashion that is contrary
to the Sharia). The decision to work is solely the wives' and any
income that a woman earns is her own, to spend as she likes.
In most modern forms of Islamic theology, men are to be caring
husbands and respect their wives' honor and modesty. They must feed,
clothe, and house their wives in the same manner they do themselves.
The husband should not force his wife to work, cook, or nurse their
children against her will. He is responsible for satisfying his wife
sexually and not divulging their secrets to others. The husband may
marry more than one wife if he treats all wives justly and informs
his previous wives of his intention, their permission however is not
required.
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