An exploratory review of custom based issues related to parity (Kafa’at) in contemporary context with reference to Fatawa Shami

Abstract

One of the principles that Islam has given to stabilize the family and keep the relationship of husband and wife happy is the principle of kifaat, which means equality that is, considering before marriage that the husband and wife should be equal in religion, descent, property, profession, morals and piety. The credibility of kafaat has been different in every era and region. Somewhere one thing has been given more importantance and some other time another has been emphasized. With the change of circumstances and times, the custom also kept changing. In the time of Allama Ibn Abidin Shami, the custom of parity has changed a lot in the current custom۔