The Majelis Tarjih Muhammadiyah’s Fatwa on the Pregnant Marriage: A Maqāṣid Approach

Abstract

This study aims to analyse the Majelis Tarjih Muhammadiyah’s fatwa on the case of pregnant marriage applying the maqāṣid al-sharī’ah approach. There are three rationales why this research is important. First, this issue is considered controversial as opinions regarding the law of pregnant marriage among Islamic scholars are quite diverse. Second, Muhammadiyah as an Islamic organisation in the largest Muslim majority country (Indonesia) has a semi-authoritative body, namely the Majelis Tarjih Muhammadiyah; to provide religious views for its members. Third, this research is important to examine the council’s fatwa whether it is in accordance with maqāṣid al-sharī’ah. Based on the author’s analysis, it has been argued that the Majelis Tarjih Muhammadiyah’s fatwa on the law of pregnant marriage is in accordance with maqāṣid al-sharī’ah. This research also studies various opinions and methods used by Muhammadiyah. Finally, this research concludes that pregnant women should not be married except by men who cause pregnancy or by their ex-husbands.