The spelling of "temporary marriages" can be tricky due to the pronunciation of the word "temporary". In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈtɛmpərəri/. The "-ary" at the end of the word is pronounced as /əri/. Make sure to be careful with the letter "p" as well, as it is silent in this word. So, the correct spelling of this word is "temporary marriages". It refers to a type of Islamic marriage contract that is temporary and has a specific end date.
Temporary marriages, often referred to as mut'a or Nikah mut'ah, are a type of marriage recognized in certain cultural and religious contexts where the relationship between a man and a woman is legally and socially formalized for a fixed period of time. This practice is prevalent in Shia Islam, and in some cases, has historical roots in pre-Islamic customs. Temporary marriages are distinct from permanent marriages in that they are time-limited contracts, usually ranging from a few hours to a few months, with a predetermined termination date stipulated at the time of the agreement.
In temporary marriages, the couples involved agree upon the terms and conditions of the marriage, including the length of the relationship and any financial obligations. These unions are typically contracted to fulfill the natural desires and needs of each partner without necessitating a long-term commitment or financial responsibilities associated with permanent marriages. Temporary marriages can be polygynous, allowing a man to have multiple temporary wives simultaneously, although in some cases, the husband may only have one temporary spouse at a time.
The purpose and legitimacy of temporary marriages are subjects of debate among religious scholars and society at large. Supporters argue that they provide an outlet for individuals in need of companionship or physical intimacy while adhering to the ethics of Islamic law. Moreover, temporary marriages are seen as a means to protect the chastity of individuals in society who may otherwise engage in unlawful relationships. Critics, however, raise concerns about potential exploitation, objectification of women, and the potential for abuse or coercion. The acceptance and prevalence of temporary marriages vary significantly across different cultures and geographical regions.
The term "temporary marriages" is a translation of the Islamic concept of "mut'ah" or "Nikah Mut'ah" in Arabic. The etymology of the Arabic term "mut'ah" is derived from the root word "ta'-allah" which means "to benefit from" or "to enjoy". In Islamic jurisprudence, "mut'ah" refers to a fixed-term marriage contract, allowing couples to enter a temporary union for a predetermined period of time, often for companionship or sexual relations. It is important to note that the practice of temporary marriages is a highly debated subject within Islamic scholarship and has varying interpretations among different sects and scholars.