Marriage and its requirements in Islam and Zoroastrianism: a comparative study

Abstract

The formation of marriage which is the foundation of family in both Islam and Zoroastrianism depends on certain requirements or conditions. The comparative study of these requirements or conditions shows certain similarities and differences between the two religions, and examining these issues can shed light on the common tradition and shared heritage between the two. The present essay will first study the conditions of marriage from perspective of Zoroastrianism and then compares that standpoint to the Islamic law. The study shows that there are important differences between the two religions. This research deals with one problem from the perspective of the Zoroastrianism and then examines the same problem from the Islamic point of view. Common characteristics in conditions of marriage (age, consent of the guardian, consent of the girl and boy, and their social equality) and in the marriage contact itself (offer and acceptance, representation, witnesses and bride-wealth) between the two legal systems are noteworthy.

Keywords

• family
• islam
• marriage
• zoroastrian law