Journal of Shi'a Islamic Studies

Numerous studies have been conducted to assess the extent and diversity of relationships in Muslim societies. However, within the context of relationships, this book narrows its focus to temporary marriages. The anthology makes a valuable contribution to understanding the concept of temporary marriage, which has been a contentious topic within Islamic society sparking extensive debates. This anthology tackles the issue by incorporating a wide range of extensive studies that delve into the factors influencing, supporting, negating, criticizing, and justifying temporary marriages in detail.

Since temporary marriages are primarily practiced within the Shi‘a school of Islam, the research and studies in the book are predominantly based on evidence from this specific community. The studies within the book can benefit individuals of all ages, from youth onward. These studies present evidence from both the past and the present, addressing long-standing confusions related to the concept of temporary marriage that people from various backgrounds and schools of thought may have. The content in the articles is well-structured, smoothly transitioning from one point to another. The book includes real-life stories supported by concrete evidence and sources, making them relatable, sympathetic, and empathetic.

The concept of temporary marriage is permissible within the Shi‘a school of Islam, but the Sunni school prohibits such relationships formed on temporary grounds. One of the studies, in the seventh article of the third part by T. Asgarilaleh & A. Moors, elaborates that, among other reasons, temporary marriage can be enacted to address infertility issues where third-party gametes are implanted as a treatment course in fertility. Such treatment necessitates an official relationship, either temporary or permanent, both of which are permissible in Shi‘ite contexts. In contrast, Sunni scholars and clerics remain divided on this specific treatment, from some suggesting it being entirely illegal, to others who hold gamete [End Page 219] implantation to be legal but without the need for a temporary marriage contract. This study delves into the subject of Associated Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) in detail, supporting its views with prominent references from various experts and scholars. However, the study could be further enhanced by incorporating real-life instances to strengthen and intensify the narrative, convincing those who oppose it.

The book also presents several accounts that validate the increasing trend of temporary marriages. The focus of these studies is the dowry, which is one of the reasons behind this development. These studies provide a vibrant and in-depth exploration of the issue, with real-life examples that add depth and empathy.

In the book’s introduction, A. Moors and Y. Shanneik highlight that in permanent marriage, grooms are faced with giving rising values in gifts and wealth to brides, while having to foot the bill for the marriage festivities. With the economic stresses and fall in income among the shrinking middle class of most urban societies temporary marriages continues to prevail among Shi‘a communities as far apart as Oman, Iran, and Norway. Commercialised wedding gatherings, housing costs, and other responsibilities also often lead to delayed marriages as those involved struggle to find the money to afford it.

The introduction also elaborates on the categories of temporary marriages, such as those that involve a sexual relationship and those that do not. It further discusses the context of both types of marriages in detail, mentioning the need for temporary marriages without sexual relationships for individuals who have no Mahram and are required to perform pilgrimages, religious rites, official duties, or other social requirements.

A study focusing on the Shi‘a section of Oman in part two, chapter 3 by J. Safar, also discusses how religious affiliations, social classes, and ethnic backgrounds are intertwined in the context of dowry (mahr) payments and wedding ceremonies. Omani Shi‘as typically enjoy the benefit of lower dowry payments, around four thousand Omani Riyals, compared to those of other sects, which are often doubled. The type of marriage...