Islamic marriage, also known as Nikah, is a religious and social institution that is based on the principles of the Islamic faith. The Islamic marriage system is a complex and comprehensive system that provides guidelines for the formation and maintenance of a marital relationship. In this article, we will explore the key features of the Islamic marriage system and how it is practiced by Muslims around the world.

1. Purpose of Marriage: The Islamic marriage system is based on the belief that marriage is a sacred institution that is intended to provide a framework for the establishment of a strong and loving family. The purpose of marriage in Islam is to promote love, compassion, and mutual support between the partners, to provide a stable and secure environment for the upbringing of children, and to fulfill the physical and emotional needs of both partners.
2. Prerequisites for Marriage: To enter into a valid marriage in Islam, both partners must meet certain prerequisites. These prerequisites include being Muslim, being of sound mind, and being free from any legal impediments such as a prior marriage or engagement. It is also preferred that the couple have a good reputation and that the bride have reached the age of maturity (typically 18 years old).
3. Contractual Nature of Marriage: In Islam, marriage is considered to be a contract between the two partners and God. The contract is known as the Nikah and is a written agreement that is signed by both partners in the presence of witnesses. The Nikah is a legally binding agreement that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both partners and serves as the foundation of the marital relationship.
4. Dowry (Mahr): The Islamic marriage system includes the concept of a dowry, which is a gift from the groom to the bride as a symbol of his commitment to the marriage. The dowry is usually specified in the Nikah and can take various forms, such as money, property, or other assets. The dowry is considered to be the property of the bride and is meant to provide her with financial security in the event of divorce or the death of her husband.
5. Mutah: Mutah is a type of temporary marriage in Islam that is contracted for a specified period of time and for a specified amount of compensation. Mutah is not widely practiced and is controversial within the Muslim community, with some scholars considering it to be a valid form of marriage and others rejecting it as un-Islamic.
6. Polygamy: The Islamic marriage system allows for the practice of polygamy, meaning a man may have more than one wife. However, the Quran imposes strict conditions on the practice of polygamy, requiring that the man be just and equitable towards all of his wives and that he be able to provide for them financially. Polygamy is not widely practiced in many Muslim-majority countries and is considered by some to be outdated.
7. Divorce: In Islam, divorce is considered to be a last resort and is discouraged. The Quran requires that the couple make every effort to reconcile their differences before seeking a divorce. If a divorce is necessary, it must be carried out in accordance with Islamic law, which requires the involvement of witnesses and the fulfillment of specific conditions.

The Islamic marriage system is a comprehensive system that provides guidelines for the formation and maintenance of a marital relationship. The Nikah, the dowry (Mahr), the conditions for divorce, and the principles of equality and mutual support are all key features of the Islamic marriage system. While the practices and interpretations of the Islamic marriage system may vary among Muslims, the underlying principles of love, compassion, and mutual support remain central to the institution of marriage in Islam.