According to Muslim Personal Law, the marriage age for males and females respectively is ______?

According to Muslim Personal Law as applied in Pakistan, the legally recognized marriage age is 18 years for males and 16 years for females. Therefore, the correct answer is 18 and 16. This rule is derived from statutory law rather than purely classical Islamic jurisprudence and is implemented to regulate marriages and protect social welfare.

In Pakistan, Muslim Personal Law is governed in practice by the Muslim Family Laws Ordinance, 1961, along with provincial child marriage restraint laws. These laws set the minimum legal age for marriage at 18 for males and 16 for females. Any marriage conducted below these ages is considered a violation of the law and may result in legal penalties for the guardian or officiator, although the marriage itself may still be recognized in certain circumstances.

From an Islamic perspective, marriage eligibility traditionally depends on physical and mental maturity (bulugh) rather than a fixed numerical age. Classical Islamic scholars emphasized maturity, responsibility, and consent as essential conditions for marriage. However, modern Muslim states, including Pakistan, have introduced age limits through legislation to ensure education, health, and social stability, especially for women.

The distinction between Islamic principles and state-enforced Muslim Personal Law is important. While Islam encourages marriage when individuals are capable of fulfilling marital responsibilities, governments have the authority to regulate marriage age in the public interest (maslahah). These regulations aim to prevent child marriages, protect minors, and promote informed consent.

This question is frequently asked in Islamic Studies, Pakistan Studies, Law, and competitive examinations, where candidates are expected to know the legally prescribed marriage ages rather than theological debates. Remembering that 18 years for males and 16 years for females is the standard under Muslim Personal Law in Pakistan is essential for accurate exam preparation.