AN EXAMINATION OF KHITBAH (BETROTHAL) AND PRE-MARITAL MEDICAL CHECKUP IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY

This article showcase the relevancies of Khitbah (betrothal) and pre-marital medical checkup in contemporary society over wide spread of many diseases, advancements in genetic engineering have led to considerable improvements in diagnosing these diseases. Therefore, pressure on spouses to be observe, recognize and consider ethics cum etiquette of Khitbah and premarital medical examinations adequately. Many Islamic communities have responded to this emerging need by observing the etiquette of Khitbah and making some premarital screening tests compulsory prior to marriage. The adoption of these legislation comes from the core message of Islam as in Qur‟an 5:2, which encourages counselling to protect future generations. The research employs qualitative methods and field studies from medical facilities to capture the experiences on perspectives of Muslim ummah. Islamic scholars were urged to put more effort in highlighting and addressing the threat of barbaric and uncivilized custom by non-adhering to the contemporary solution of the sexual transmitted diseases (STD‟s) through pre-marital medical checkup. Also, this article recommends the importance of intensified efforts by Imāms, Islamic scholars, Health personnel and Muslim organizations to disseminate the pristine teachings of Islam regarding Khitbah and marriage without medical test certificate. And also, in addressing the challenges of this menace of sexual transmitted diseases (STD‟s) and ensuring the realization of heath benefit to the couple‟s in the society.