A jurisprudential and legal exploration of the value of dowry in a marriage contract

Purpose The main purpose of this article is to examine the value of dowry in married life, citing the verses of the Holy Quran, the authentic hadiths of the Infallibles (AS), and the provisions of the Iranian Civil Code. The issue under consideration is that dowry should not be viewed solely from a material perspective, and its spiritual dimensions should also be considered. The main question of the research is what is the value and spiritual position of dowry in marital relations and society, and what effect does it have on the continuation of a common life. This research was conducted using the analytical and comparative research method and research in religious and legal sources. The findings of the research show that dowry, as a spiritual gift from the husband to the wife, has a value beyond its material aspects, and the Holy Quran and the hadiths of the Infallibles (AS) emphasize this spiritual dimension, and that a purely instrumental view of dowry can cause tension and problems in married life. Therefore, agreement between the parties in determining dowry and paying attention to its spiritual aspects can help strengthen and sustain marital relations. This article provides guidelines especially for young people who are planning to get married.