Is a disparity in educational levels (a university degree for the girl versus a simple education for the young man) considered a problem in marriage?
The jurists differed regarding the condition of compatibility (kafa'ah) in marriage. Ibn Hazm did not consider it except if one of the spouses was an fornicator, while others held that it is only considered in terms of uprightness and character, based on the Almighty's saying: "Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you," and the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "If there comes to you one whose religion and character you approve, then marry him [to your daughter]," and this is what the Malikis preferred. Meanwhile, some jurists, such as the Shafi'is and Hanafis, held that lineage and profession must be considered. The most preponderant view is to suffice with religion and character as a criterion for compatibility, for a religious man is compatible with a religious woman, regardless of other differences in educational or social levels.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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