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.