Wedding Customs and Traditions in Islamic Perspective: A Critical Analysis in the Light of Contemporary Fatwas

Abstract

This study examines the major customs and practices associated with Muslim marriages in Pakistani society in the light of contemporary Islamic fatwas, particularly those issued by Dawat-e-Islami and Darul Uloom Deoband. It discusses practices such as dowry, niwta, mehndi-related customs, music, fireworks, mixed gatherings, and different rituals connected with rukhsati. The study shows that Islam does not reject every social custom simply because it is not directly mentioned in religious texts. A custom may remain permissible as long as it does not involve a clear violation of Shariah. However, when a practice includes extravagance, waste of wealth, unlawful entertainment, inappropriate interaction between non-mahram men and women, financial pressure, or social compulsion, it becomes objectionable. The selected fatwas generally agree on the need to keep marriage simple and free from prohibited practices, although they differ in their rulings on some individual customs. The study concludes that reform in Muslim wedding culture should focus on distinguishing harmless cultural practices from those that create religious, financial, and social difficulties.