Is the suitability (Kafa'ah) of the groom a necessary condition for the validity of marriage?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Marriage
Primary text
There is a reported narration from Imam Ahmad that suitability is a condition for the marriage's validity, supported by his statement regarding separating a freed slave woman married to an Arab, and separating a woman from one who drinks intoxicants, or a weaver. The evidence cited is the statement of 'Umar (may Allah be pleased with him): 'I will prevent the private parts of women of good lineage except from suitable matches.' Furthermore, marriage without suitability is considered an action taken regarding the rights of future guardians without their permission, thus rendering it invalid, similar to contracting without the woman's permission.
Supporting text
The second narration from Imam Ahmad, held by the majority of scholars, states that suitability is not a condition for the validity of marriage. Evidence for this view includes Quran 49:13, the marriage of Zayd ibn Harithah to Zaynab bint Jahsh, the marriage of Usamah ibn Zayd to Fatima bint Qays by the Prophet's command, and 'Abdullah ibn Mas'ud's advice to his sister regarding marrying a Muslim regardless of lineage or skin color. If suitability is considered a right, its absence does not void the contract, but grants the right of repudiation (Khiyar), as seen when the Prophet (peace be upon him) gave the choice to a woman whose father married her to an unsuitable match.