BETWEEN CUSTOM AND SHARIA: AN INTRODUCTORY ISLAMIC STUDIES ANALYSIS OF THE TRADITION OF STAYING OVERNIGHT AFTER ENGAGEMENT IN PROBOLINGGO

Abstract

This article discusses the tradition of staying overnight after engagement in Probolinggo from the perspective of Introductory Islamic Studies, particularly in relation to the interaction between local custom and Islamic sharia. In some communities, staying overnight after engagement is understood as a form of family closeness, respect for prospective in-laws, and a symbol of seriousness toward marriage. However, from an Islamic perspective, engagement or proposal does not carry the same legal consequences as a marriage contract. The prospective bride and groom remain non-mahram to each other; therefore, the boundaries of interaction, the prohibition of khalwah, the protection of modesty, and pre-marital ethics must still be observed. This study uses a qualitative-descriptive approach through normative and socio-religious analysis. The data are obtained through the study of Islamic literature, the concept of ‘urf, Islamic ethics of interaction, and the analysis of local cultural practices. The findings show that the tradition of staying overnight after engagement cannot be judged as absolutely right or wrong without considering its form and practice. If the overnight stay involves the extended family while maintaining Islamic ethical boundaries, it may be understood as a form of family relationship and hospitality. However, if the practice gives space for the engaged couple to be alone, stay together without supervision, or behave like a married couple, then it contradicts Islamic teachings. Therefore, local culture needs to be directed through a selective principle: preserving the values of kinship and family ties while removing elements that may violate sharia. This study emphasizes that Introductory Islamic Studies plays an important role in guiding society to understand religion contextually, critically, and ethically.