Abstract
One area of Islamic law that has been subject to much criticism as of late is the practice of child-marriage. Some, preferring to view Islam suspiciously, tend to create a caricature of Muslims as morally depraved individuals who force young daughters into marriages to old men for financial gain. Several polemicists commenting on this practice have hurled virulent epithets toward the Prophet Muhammad, whom they believe to be the originator of this abhorrent practice. After exploring instances where child-marriage still occurs, I will examine how this practice is currently being reformed in a way consistent with Islamic law. Ultimately, I will argue Muhammad’s actions were moral and provide believers with a universal principle that ought to be followed.
DOI
10.5642/lux.201301.05
Recommended Citation
Bowden, Jeremiah J.
(2013)
"Marriageable Age in Islam: A Study on Marriageable Age Laws and Reforms in Islamic Law,"
LUX: A Journal of Transdisciplinary Writing and Research from Claremont Graduate University:
Vol. 2:
Iss.
1, Article 5.
Available at:
https://scholarship.claremont.edu/lux/vol2/iss1/5
Included in
Ethics in Religion Commons, Family Law Commons, Family, Life Course, and Society Commons, International and Area Studies Commons, Women's Studies Commons