APAKAH BOLEH MELAKUKAN SESI PRAWEDDING ? | TANYA JAWAB FIKIH #102

Summary

In this episode of the Fiqh Question and Answer program, Arif Abdul Hai discusses key aspects of Islamic marriage practices with Maulana Saifullah Mubarak Ahmad Syahid. They address questions related to proposals, including the process, social customs, and Sharia rulings. The discussion touches on engagement, the practice of rukstanah, the importance of walimah, and the limits of interaction between engaged couples. Key points include the importance of following the Prophet's Sunnah in marriage customs, the social nature of proposals, and the significance of maintaining proper boundaries in relationships before marriage. The episode provides valuable insights into Islamic marriage protocols.

Takeaways

• 😀 There is no specific standard process for proposals in Islam; it varies depending on culture and region.
• 😀 The proposal (khidbah) is a social event, not a religious one, and does not require a sermon.
• 😀 A sermon during the proposal is allowed if it is an advisory one, offering guidance and blessings, but it is not a mandatory practice.
• 😀 There is no set time frame between the proposal and the wedding, but it is encouraged to marry soon after the proposal to avoid complications.
• 😀 The proposal process often differs across cultures, with some regions holding more elaborate ceremonies than others.
• 😀 In Indonesia, a simpler rukstanah (marriage contract) is practiced, while in India and Pakistan, the event may be larger, with more guests and ceremonies.
• 😀 Walimah (the wedding feast) is considered a Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and while it does not need to be extravagant, it should be performed as part of the Islamic tradition.
• 😀 It is not permissible to propose to someone who has already received a proposal and is in the process of making a decision unless the first proposal is canceled.
• 😀 Engagements and proposals do not create a Sharia bond between the man and the woman. They are social commitments, but the Islamic rules on modesty (purdah) still apply.
• 😀 Pre-wedding photo sessions, including displays of affection like holding hands or hugging, are not in line with Islamic teachings and should be avoided to maintain modesty and moral conduct.

Q & A

Is there a standard proposal process in Islam?

No, there is no standard proposal process in Islam. The proposal (khidbah) is a social event, and the process varies based on cultural norms in different countries. There is no specific requirement in Islamic jurisprudence for how a proposal should occur.

Is there a sermon during the proposal?

No, there is no specific sermon required during the proposal. The sermon is typically associated with the marriage contract, not the proposal. The proposal is more about formally expressing the intention to marry.

Can a preacher give advice during the proposal?

Yes, it is permissible for a preacher to give advice during the proposal, as long as the advice is beneficial and helps the couple and their families. This is not considered a formal proposal sermon but rather guidance and counseling.

How long should the time be between the proposal and the wedding?

There is no fixed time period between the proposal and the wedding in Islam. However, it is encouraged to marry as soon as the couple is ready, to avoid unnecessary delays. The sooner the marriage is completed, the better for the couple.

Which is more important: invitations for rukstanah or walimah?

Both events—rukstanah (engagement) and walimah (wedding feast)—are important but may vary in size depending on cultural norms. The walimah, however, is a sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and is encouraged in Islam. It does not have to be extravagant.

Is it acceptable to skip the walimah due to financial constraints?

While walimah is a sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH), it is permissible to simplify or skip it if circumstances, such as financial difficulty, prevent holding a large event. The emphasis should be on fulfilling the sunnah in a modest and manageable manner.

Can someone propose to a woman who has already received a proposal from someone else?

No, it is not permissible to propose to a woman who has already received a proposal from someone else, especially if an agreement has been made. However, if the proposal process has not progressed, it may still be open for others to propose.

What are the boundaries regarding the veil after a proposal?

After a proposal, the social bond has been formed, but the woman and man are still not allowed to meet or interact freely in public as they are not yet married. The veil (purdah) should still be maintained, and they are not permitted to engage in behaviors such as public dating or holding hands.

Is it permissible to have a pre-wedding photo session?

Pre-wedding photo sessions that involve close physical contact such as holding hands or hugging are not permissible in Islam. These actions are not in line with Islamic guidelines for modesty, as they take place before the marriage contract.

What is considered family when it comes to photos at the wedding?

Family members are typically those who are closely related to the bride and groom. These can include parents, siblings, and other close relatives. Friends and distant relatives may not be considered family, and the couple has the discretion to decide who is considered family for the purpose of taking photos together.