Is the groom's profession (Sina'ah) a condition for suitability?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Marriage
Primary text
One narration states that profession is a condition. Those engaged in lowly professions, such as a weaver, cupper, guard, tanner, bathhouse attendant, or cleaner, are not suitable matches for women from families of high moral standing or those in respectable professions like trade or building. This is based on common custom, which resembles the defect of lineage, and a narration stating that Arabs are suitable for one another except a weaver or a cupper. Imam Ahmad, despite questioning the authenticity, acted upon this ruling because it aligned with common usage.
Supporting text
The second narration asserts that profession is not a condition because it is not a defect in religion, nor is it a permanent necessity, akin to physical weakness or illness. Therefore, it should not invalidate the marriage, although some guardians might refuse based on custom.