Konsep Kafa’ah Maliyah Dalam Memilih Pasangan Menurut Pandangan Masyarakat Perspektif Hukum Keluarga Islam

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the concept of kafa’ah maliyah in partner selection from the perspective of Islamic family law and to examine how society understands and applies it in social life. This research employs an empirical juridical method with a qualitative approach through a case study conducted in Sidomulyorejo Village, Binjai Timur District. Data were collected through literature review, in-depth interviews, and observation, and analyzed qualitatively by integrating legal norms and social realities (law in action). The results show that marriage in Islam is a strong contract (mitsaqan ghalizhan) that places religious values as the primary foundation in choosing a partner. In practice, society prioritizes religious aspects while also considering economic factors as supporting elements for household stability. Kafa’ah māliyah is not interpreted as absolute equality of wealth, but as the ability to fulfill basic needs and the alignment of vision and readiness in building a family. Empirical findings indicate that society understands kafa’ah contextually, including values, communication, and individual maturity. This study concludes that kafa’ah maliyah functions as a preventive mechanism to maintain household harmony through a balance of spiritual values, economic readiness, and personal maturity.