Dowry In Contemporary Legal Systems – The Evolution Of Dowry-Related Laws In Religious And Secular Frameworks
Abstract
The legal treatment of dowry has evolved significantly across religious and secular legal frameworks, reflecting broader social, economic, and gender-related concerns. This paper examines the development of dowry-related laws in contemporary legal systems, analyzing how religious traditions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have historically regulated dowry and how these regulations have adapted to modern legal frameworks. It explores the intersection of religious jurisprudence and state laws, highlighting efforts to mitigate dowry-related injustices, such as financial exploitation and gender-based violence. The study also evaluates legal reforms in various countries, comparing their effectiveness in addressing dowry-related issues within both religious and secular contexts. By assessing the ongoing legal and social debates, this research provides insight into the complexities of dowry regulation in the modern world.
Key Words: Dowry, Legal Systems, Religious Law, Secular Law, Gender Justice, Marriage Regulations, Feminist Legal Studies, Human Rights, Legal Reforms, Social Justice