Q: Alhamdulillah, twelve years back, I got married. At the time of marriage my intention was not to take any jahez (dowry) but one of my parents asked for basic materials like bed, furniture, house hold items (not big items). My intention is now to return the amount spent on those items to my father-in-law.
My question is: Can I give my father-in-law the suitable amount? Shall I ask my parents about this? Or is it not required because the above items will be the milkiyat (owner) of my wife?
A: The better thing is to evaluate his gifts and give him in the form of cash, etc. He will not feel belittled. You do not have to tell him the reason for giving him the gift.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)