I just learned about this temporary marriage concept that is possible under Shiite law. This New York Times article is a little bit old but explains the practice pretty clearly. Do you think temporary marriage is something that could be useful in society? Does it give women more equality than a traditional marriage does? Is it a case of prostitution or marriage as a financial transaction?
April 10, 2008 at 8:30 pm
That is one of the more interesting concepts I have heard of. It is a little strange in the openness that it allows within a marriage under the law. It would allow someone within the permanent marriage to “legally” stray which I don’t think would work, at least in the U.S. where the moral thought of straying, even legally, would be frowned on.
However, within the Islamic society, this would open the society a bit more while remaining in the religious context.
The very sad thing was the end of the article. I felt really bad for the woman at the end.
As far as prostitution, I wouldn’t go that far. It does require a “legal” blessing which puts a little more rigor around it, and I wouldn’t be calling a cleric a pimp.
April 10, 2008 at 8:57 pm
In Islam marriage is a contract. Most of the time parents pick spouses for their children. This choice might have various motivations and benefits.
Temporary marriage was advised by Muhammed to soldiers, travelers or men who just “couldn’t wait”, but did not want to commit sin in Allah’s eyes.
In Muslim societies girl’s/woman’s virginity is expected at the wedding night. The girls given for temporary marriages are “sold” often by the families, to get some profit. Later on, no one wants to marry them.
In my opinion, it is pure abuse, legalized prostitution, serving the appetites of men, destroying the lives of women.
Thank you.