In many societies, it is common practice to provide a sum known as "maintenance" (alimony) to women upon divorce. Islam does not mandate such maintenance; instead, it prescribes that a substantial sum be given to women prior to marriage.
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| Mahr |
Women often bear the greater loss in marital life; they may face divorce after having lost their youth and beauty. Considering these realities, Islam grants women the right to determine the amount of Mahr(dower).
The Mahr—which serves as a form of advance maintenance—is more secure and guaranteed than the maintenance practices prevalent today.
The Quran commands that women be given their Mahr willingly. (Al-Quran 4:4)
Women may ask for any amount they wish as Mahr; no one has the right to place a limit on the amount they can request.
The Quran further commands that even if one has given a vast heap of wealth as Mahr, it must not be taken back. (Al-Quran 4:20)
Since the right to determine the Mahr amount rests with women, they may choose to forgo it or accept it in installments.
(See: Al-Quran 2:237)
Women's failure to exercise this right granted by Islam has led to a deterioration of their situation. Because they do not demand Mahr, the cruel practice of men demanding dowry has escalated.
Men, who are obligated to give, have lost their sense of honor to the point where they demand and accept dowry. The command to give is far more emphatic than the prohibition against taking dowry. No true Muslim would dare to demand a dowry.