Marriage as a Great Worship and National Event: A Meaningful Story in Al-Zaytun
By Ali Aminulloh
Special Contributor Jaya-News.com
Marriage is not just a union of two people, but also a great worship that is carried out in the long term. It is a divine law that is a means (intermediary) for the continuation of humanity. It is through marriage that life continues, giving birth to new generations to continue the baton of civilization. It is no exaggeration to call marriage one of the great events in the history of mankind—mitsaqan ghalidza—a heavy, sacred, and responsible agreement.
Marriage can also be interpreted from various perspectives. It can be a party event, a means of friendship, strengthening family networks, and even a means of diplomacy between two kingdoms. In some areas, marriage is a business opportunity. But more than that, it can also be a stage for scientific transformation—a meeting of figures, relatives, and colleagues, as well as a space for contemplation of the noble values that shape civilization.
Just like the wedding of Fajar Sofyan bin Supardi and Zaytunah binti Abdul Halim, which was held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the Al-Ishlah Al-Zaytun Guest House. The wedding procession that took place was typical of Al-Zaytun’s style: simple but full of meaning. A sign that greatness is not always displayed through luxury, but through noble values and spiritual maturity.
A Symbol of Nationality in a Sacred Procession
The procession began with something unique and monumental: singing the national anthem Indonesia Raya in three stanzas. All attendees—the bride and groom’s families, invited guests, and even the KUA officers—were immersed in deep appreciation. The song was led by Agung Rijoto, an Indonesian citizen of Shanghai descent and a friend of Al-Zaytun. From verse to verse, the spirit of nationalism permeated the wedding atmosphere: The call for a united Indonesia, an invitation to pray for a happy Indonesia and a call to promise that Indonesia will be eternal”.
The wedding shifted from being a mere religious ceremony to a national moment. The noble values in the verses of the song Indonesia Raya were united in the procession, building a new meaning that marriage is also part of the struggle to build an eternal Indonesia.
Next, the handover procession of the bride and groom was carried out, a tradition rooted in Nusantara culture. Acting as the representative of the groom was Ust. Suwandi, S.H., Teacher of MA Al-Zaytun, and from the bride’s side was Drs. Miftakh Jafar Syubbani, M.Pd., Pakdenya (Ua) Zaytunah and also an exponent of YPI Al-Zaytun. This moment became an introduction to the two extended families, a symbol of the unification of two historical lines, two hopes, and two universes that are now one.
Akad, Advice, and the Sign of the Beginning of a Journey
The main procession began with the reading of a letter of request from the bride-to-be to her father as guardian. Continued dialogue between the marriage guardian and the prospective groom, which contains confirmation of his child’s request, explanation of family identity, and details of the dowry. With full solemnity, the guardian granted the request and the marriage contract was carried out with the biological father as the direct marriage guardian.
This marriage was witnessed by two honorable witnesses: Datuk Sir Imam Prawoto, KRSS, MBA, CRBC from the woman’s side, and Syafruddin Ahmad, S.H., M.H. from the man’s side. After the contract was declared valid, the parties signed the marriage documents led by the Head of KUA H. Kosim, S.Ag., M.Si., followed by the handover of the marriage book and dowry to the bride.
One important and meaningful moment was the delivery of marriage advice by the bride’s uncle, Drs. Amich Al-Humami, M.Ed., Ph.D. The advice became the peak of spiritual contemplation about the meaning of building a household, being a responsible person, and carrying out God’s mandate in the form of a partner life.
In Islamic tradition, marriage is not just a union of two people, but also a great worship that bridges love, faith, and descendants. Drs. Amich Al-Humami, M.Ed., Ph.D., in his marriage advice, reminds us that marriage is the sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad which is full of blessings. Marriage is a means of continuing the generation of pious and knowledgeable humans, while also protecting one’s honor from the temptations of destructive lust. Marriage is not about waiting to be rich, but about physical and spiritual readiness to shoulder a great mandate. Allah Himself has guaranteed that anyone who marries with sincere intentions will be given ample sustenance.
The Qur’an refers to the marriage contract as miitsaqan ghalidza, a solid agreement, which is only mentioned three times in Divine revelation — one of which is in the context of the husband-wife relationship. This mandate is not light: a man accepts full responsibility from the woman’s guardian, becoming a leader who is obliged to guard, guide, and provide for his wife in a good way. The Prophet himself exemplified that marriage is the highest form of
ri commitment, not only between humans, but also before God. Therefore, marriage is a promise that must not be betrayed and must be carried out with sincerity and sincerity.
Ananda Zaytunah and Fajar Sofyan have now tied the knot in a sacred contract. They began their journey as husband and wife within the framework of a noble religion. May the two of them form a sakinah family, full of love and grace, and blessed with pious and pious offspring. A household that is not only a place to shelter, but also a space to grow together, strengthen each other in faith and produce future generations who will become gems for the nation and people.
After the advice, the bride and groom expressed their request for blessing by coming and greeting the extended family one by one. There were no tears of emotion, only happiness and pride on every face.
Epilogue: Between Prayer, Art, and Hope for the Future
The event closed with a hamdalah greeting, then the guests gave their congratulations, took photos together, and enjoyed the dishes provided. The happy atmosphere was complemented by captivating art performances—from traditional gending, keroncong, to pop songs. The stage was opened for anyone who wanted to show off their talents and contribute their voices, making this wedding a space for shared expression.
Exactly at 17.00 WIB, the entire series of processions were officially closed. The guests returned with impressions, not only about the beauty of Fajar and Zaytunah’s wedding, but also about how marriage can be a field of values: a place to sow love, faith, knowledge, and nationality.
This wedding is a witness that when religious, national, and humanitarian values are combined in one sacred covenant, not just a new couple is born—but a new chapter for a more meaningful civilization.*
Gantar Indramayu, June 16, 2025
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