Dowry

Definition and terms

This custom involves the transfer of assets such as land, livestock, or cash. It differs from bride price, which flows from the groom to the bride's family. Dower refers to property settled on the bride by the groom. Local names vary widely. In Urdu it is called jahez. Persian speakers use jahizie. Hindi speakers say dahej. Turkish communities refer to it as çeyiz. Bengali speakers call it joutuk. These terms all describe the same core transaction of wealth moving with the bride.

Historical origins

Scholars link dowry to intensive plough agriculture. Jack Goody argued that this farming method required men to control property. Families gave dowries to keep wealth within the nuclear lineage. This contrasts with hoe agriculture regions where bride price is common. Ancient Babylonian laws recorded these payments early on. Roman law also formalized dowry as a contribution to marital burdens. The practice likely predates written records in many Eurasian cultures.

Regional practices

In the Indian subcontinent, dowry remains a major issue. Historical evidence suggests it was less common than bridewealth in earlier centuries. Today, it often supports the groom's extended family rather than just the couple. In Greece, the practice was legally abolished in 1983. Turkey maintains the custom under the name çeyiz. In Rome, dowries could be given by relatives or friends. They were intended to help the husband manage household costs.

Legal status and harm

Dowry demands are illegal in India under the Dowry Prohibition Act of 1961. They have been linked to violence against brides. In many jurisdictions, the practice continues despite bans. It places a heavy financial burden on the bride's family. Disputes over unpaid dowries can lead to domestic abuse. Legal reforms aim to protect women from these coercive financial expectations.

How Dowry is kept

The bride's parents assemble a collection of goods and money. This may include furniture, vehicles, or real estate. The transfer happens before or during the wedding ceremony. The groom's family receives these assets. In some cultures, the funds go directly to the groom's joint family. In others, they form a trust for the couple. The specific items depend on local customs and the families' wealth.

When and where

It occurs at the time of marriage. It is part of the betrothal negotiations. The exact timing varies by region. Some families pay in installments over years. Others provide it as a single lump sum.

It is strongest in South Asia, particularly India and Pakistan. It also exists in parts of the Middle East and North Africa. Historically, it was widespread in Europe and East Asia. Modern legal changes have reduced its prevalence in Greece and other Western nations.

What Dowry means

It provides financial security for the bride. It acts as her share of the family inheritance. It helps establish the new marital home. It signals the social status of both families. In some contexts, it ensures the groom's commitment to the wife.

Who takes part

• The bride's father: Provides the majority of the assets
• The groom: Receives the wealth and manages it
• The bride: Brings the assets into the marriage
• Relatives: May contribute additional gifts or cash

If you are a guest

Guests do not typically participate in the exchange. They witness the union. In some cultures, they may bring small gifts. They do not contribute to the dowry itself. Their role is supportive and ceremonial.

Then and now

Laws in India and Pakistan criminalize dowry demands. Enforcement remains difficult. Urban families may reduce visible displays of wealth. The practice persists due to social pressure. Many families still view it as essential for securing a good match.

On the wedding table

Symbols: Money and envelopes The ring

Questions people ask about Dowry

See also

Bride priceWealth paid by the groom or his family to the bride or her kin to formalize a union.ArabikalyanamA temporary marriage arrangement between Arabian men and women in Kerala that has been linked to exploitation.Bride buyingThe exchange of money or goods for a woman to become a wife.Bride buying in IndiaThe forced purchase of women from impoverished regions for arranged marriages in Northern India.

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• Tajik weddings hit by austerity lawBBC, Article
• Tajik weddings hit by austerity lawBBC, Article

• Dowry on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Wedding customs differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-05.