💍 Khitbah & engagement · #38

May one give gifts to a fiancé(e)? Are the gifts counted as mahr?

Giving gifts to one's fiancé(e) is permitted, and they do not count as mahr unless stated to be so.
Gifts strengthen the bond of affection between the two families. The mahr, by contrast, is the wife's right stated or fixed in the marriage contract. So a ring, hantaran items or gifts during the engagement are ordinary gifts, unless both sides clearly agree to make them part of the mahr. To avoid disputes if the engagement is broken off, record what was given, its value and its status (gift or advance on the mahr). Avoid gifts that are too expensive or that lead to free mixing. See khitbah and mahr & hantaran.

Sources

Surah an-Nisa' 4:4Narrated by al-Bukhari in al-Adab al-Mufrad (hasan): 'Exchange gifts'

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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