ANALYTICAL REVIEW OF THE INFLUENCE OF TECHNOLOGY IN THE CHANGING PATTERN OF ISLAMIC MARRIAGE*

Information and Communications Technology (ICT), as a modern system of communication offers new opportunities for transforming the manner in which practically everything is done. The whole world has embraced technology; and because Islam is a complete way of life, ICT has made a global impact on how Muslims approach, interpret, and practice Islam. Although much has been written about the impact of technology on the practice of Islam generally, there is a dearth of research on how the use of technology affects the manner in which Islamic marriages are contracted and terminated. Accordingly, this paper considers the impact of technology as a medium for marriage and divorce contracts among muslim couples. Drawing on primary and secondary> materials, the paper finds that contracting marriage and issuing divorce through digital means are valid as long as all requirements as stipulated under the Qur’an and Sunnah are met. The paper however finds that such practices are prone to abuse which often result in unpleasant outcomes for the parties involed (particularly women and children), their respective families, and even the society at large- because families are the bedrock of society. The paper concludes by making recommendations for cautionary measures, and the articulation of the position of Islam on issues regarding marriage and divorce in tune with the changing times.