KONSEP KAFA’AH DALAM FIQIH IMAM SYAFI’I PADA PRAKTEK PERJODOHAN DI PONDOK PESANTREN SABILURROSYAD GASEK MALANG (Studi Deskriptif Di Pondok Pesantren Sabilurrosyad Gasek Malang)

Abstract

This study aims to examine the concept of kafa’ah in Shafi’i jurisprudence and its application in matchmaking practices at Pondok Pesantren Sabilurrosyad Gasek, Malang. The background of this research arises from the social dynamics between traditional pesantren values and the growing influence of modernity, which increasingly emphasizes individual freedom in choosing a life partner. This research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical method, relying on primary data from interviews with the pesantren’s caretaker and matched santri, as well as secondary data from classical and modern Islamic legal literature. The findings indicate that matchmaking practices in this pesantren are not carried out in an authoritarian manner, but are instead based on the principle of kafa’ah, which includes equality in terms of religion, lineage, wealth, profession, and character. This concept refers to the thoughts of Imam al-Shafi’i, who emphasized the importance of compatibility to maintain household harmony. In practice, the pesantren emphasizes the consent of both prospective spouses and conducts istikharah and character consultation before final decisions are made. The role of the kiai (Islamic scholar) is highly significant in this process, serving as both a spiritual guide and a social mediator trusted by the santri and their guardians. This study demonstrates that matchmaking traditions in pesantren, when carried out in accordance with Islamic principles and mutual consent, can serve as a constructive alternative for building harmonious and spiritually grounded families.

Keywords: Kafa’ah, Matrimonial Matchmaking, Syafi’i Fiqh, Pesantren (Islamic Boarding School), Religious Leadership Role