Mahr Calculator - Islamic Dowry Guide
Calculate an appropriate mahr (dowry) amount for Islamic marriage. Compare suggestions based on income, savings, gold, silver, and traditional references. Free Islamic marriage finance tool.
About Mahr
Mahr (مهر) is a mandatory gift from the groom to the bride in Islamic marriage. It is her right and becomes her exclusive property. There is no fixed amount in Islam - it should be reasonable, within the groom's means, and agreed upon by both parties.
Financial Information
Calculate Custom Mahr
Your Mahr Value
$5,000.00
Suggested Mahr Amounts
Mahr of Fatimah (RA)
Equivalent to ~1.19kg silver
Basis: Historical Sunnah
$1,011.50
Savings-Based (10%)
10% of current savings
Basis: Practical approach
$1,500.00
Savings-Based (20%)
20% of current savings
Basis: Practical approach
$3,000.00
Income-Based (1 Month)
One month's gross income
Basis: Common practice
$5,000.00
Gold (10 Tola)
10 Tola (116.64g) of gold
Basis: South Asian tradition
$7,581.60
Income-Based (3 Months)
Three months' gross income
Basis: Common practice
$15,000.00
Islamic Guidelines for Mahr
No Minimum or Maximum: There is no fixed amount. The Prophet (PBUH) said even an iron ring is acceptable if one cannot afford more.
Within Means: The mahr should not burden the groom or lead to debt. Moderation is preferred in Islam.
Mutual Agreement: Both parties should agree on the amount. It should honor the bride without excessive display.
Her Exclusive Property: The mahr belongs solely to the bride. It is not to be used by parents or given to others.
Prompt or Deferred: Mahr can be given immediately (mu'ajjal) or deferred (mu'akhar), or a combination of both.
Prophetic Guidance
"The best of mahrs is the simplest (or easiest)."
— Reported by Al-Hakim, graded Sahih
"The most blessed nikah is one with the least expenses."
— Reported by Ahmad
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mahr in Islam?
Mahr (also spelled Mehr, Meher, or Sadaq) is a mandatory gift from the groom to the bride as part of the Islamic marriage contract (nikah). It is the bride's right and becomes her exclusive property. The mahr can be money, gold, property, or any other valuable gift agreed upon by both parties.
Is there a minimum or maximum mahr amount?
There is no fixed minimum or maximum amount for mahr in Islamic law. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) approved mahrs ranging from teaching Quran to iron rings. However, scholars generally advise that it should be of meaningful value while remaining within the groom's financial capability. The emphasis is on moderation and avoiding burden.
What was the mahr of the Prophet's wives?
The mahr given to the wives of the Prophet (PBUH), the Mothers of the Believers, was 500 dirhams of silver (approximately 1.49 kg of silver). The mahr given to Fatimah (RA) by Ali (RA) was 400 dirhams (approximately 1.19 kg of silver). These serve as traditional references, though Islam encourages flexibility based on circumstances.
Can mahr be paid in installments?
Yes, mahr can be divided into two parts: mu'ajjal (prompt/immediate) and mu'akhar (deferred). The immediate portion is given at or before the wedding, while the deferred portion is paid later as agreed - often upon divorce or death. Both amounts should be specified in the marriage contract.
Can the bride forgive the mahr?
Yes, the bride has the right to forgive part or all of the mahr if she chooses to do so voluntarily and without pressure. The Quran mentions this: "But if they, of their own good pleasure, remit any part of it to you, take it and enjoy it with right good cheer." (4:4) However, this must be her free choice.
Is mahr the same as dowry?
While often translated as "dowry," mahr is quite different from the traditional concept of dowry in some cultures. In Islam, mahr is paid FROM the groom TO the bride (not from the bride's family). It is the bride's exclusive property and right, not a payment to her family. This distinction is important as it honors and empowers the bride.
Types of Mahr
Mahr al-Musamma
The specified mahr - an amount explicitly agreed upon and stated in the marriage contract. This is the most common type and is legally binding.
Mahr al-Mithl
The customary or equivalent mahr - used when no specific amount was agreed upon. It's based on what women of similar status in the family typically receive.
Mahr Mu'ajjal
Prompt mahr - paid immediately at the time of the marriage contract or before consummation. This is the preferred form.
Mahr Mu'akhar
Deferred mahr - payment postponed to a later date, often becoming due upon divorce or death of the husband.
Cultural Considerations
Mahr amounts vary significantly across cultures and regions. While Islam encourages moderation, local customs and family expectations often influence the amount. Common practices include:
- • South Asia: Often specified in gold (e.g., 10 tola/116g of gold)
- • Arab World: Monetary amounts are common, often with immediate and deferred portions
- • Southeast Asia: May include property, land, or symbolic items
- • Western Muslims: Often based on income or savings, with flexible arrangements
Important Reminder
This calculator provides suggestions for educational purposes. The actual mahr should be mutually agreed upon by the bride and groom, taking into account financial capability, cultural expectations, and Islamic guidelines of moderation. It is recommended to consult with family members and an Islamic scholar to determine an appropriate amount for your specific situation.