Relevansi Konsep Kafa'ah dalam Perkawinan Pada Era Modern: Perspektif Tokoh Nahdlatul Ulama Kecamatan Bungah

Relevansi Konsep Kafa’ah dalam Perkawinan Pada Era Modern: Perspektif Tokoh Nahdlatul Ulama di Kecamatan Bungah

Abstract

This study aims to examine the relevance of the concept of kafa'ah (compatibility) in marriage in the modern era based on the perspectives of Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) figures in Bungah District, Gresik Regency. The study employs a descriptive qualitative approach using field research methods through in-depth interviews with three key informants: Drs. Nasikhun, M.Si. (Head of the Office of Religious Affairs/KUA of Bungah District), H. Nailul Muna, Lc., M.Pd. (Chair of RMI MWCNU Bungah), and K.H. Fatkhan Anwari (community religious figure). The findings reveal that the concept of kafa'ah has not been abandoned, but has undergone a significant transformation in meaning: from compatibility based on lineage (nasab) and social stratification toward compatibility based on personal capacity, encompassing religious quality, character, education, and shared life vision. Religious equality remains the most fundamental and non-negotiable element of kafa'ah. Meanwhile, the local concept of "podo cocok" — mutual alignment in mindset and life goals between prospective partners — has become the most practically embraced form of kafa'ah in everyday partner selection. This transformation aligns with the jurisprudential principle of taghayyur al-ahkam bi taghayyur al-zaman wa al-makan and the maslahah principle that underpins NU's ijtihad methodology, affirming that kafa'ah as a domain of mu'amalah ijtihadiyyah remains relevant and adaptive in the modern era without losing its essential Islamic legal purpose.