Fixing an amount to be paid to the Waly in return for holding the wedding

Q: Our tribe agreed that the bridegroom is to pay to the Waliy (a legally accountable person acting for a woman regarding marriage) six thousand Riyals instead of paying the costs of the wedding ceremony. To pay this sum, an amount of money is to be collected from every married person in the tribe, whether solvent or insolvent. What is the ruling of the Shari`ah regarding this? Please enlighten us, may Allah reward you and forgive your sins. It should be noted that the Walimah (wedding dinner) is served at the home of the Waliy.

A: This agreement obliges people with something that is not obligated by Allah (Exalted be He). It may arouse dispute, envy and hatred among the members of the tribe. The money may be given unwillingly. Moreover, it equates between those who are solvent and those who are not in payment, and this is unfair. Based on the facts mentioned above, it is not permissible to make an agreement to this effect nor continue one which has been concluded according to these terms. (Part No. 19; Page No. 141) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet, his family and Companions.