Continuing a marriage if the mahr (dowry) has not been paid

Q: Is it permissible to continue a marriage if the mahr (dowry) has not been paid? 

I am currently married, but my husband has not yet paid the agreed-upon mahr (dowry). I would like to know if my marriage is still valid in Islam without the payment of mahr. What steps should be taken in such a situation? Is the marriage still considered valid, and what are the Islamic guidelines regarding mahr payments? Should I take any specific actions to address this issue?

A: Your nikaah is valid, but it is not permissible for your husband to hold back your mahr from you. Not giving you your mahr will cause him to be sinful in the court of Allah Ta'ala.

And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

Answered by:

Mufti Zakaria Makada

Checked & Approved:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)