What is the criterion for the offer and acceptance in the marriage proposal, and what is the ruling on some customary practices and traditions in this regard?

The questioner: Peace be upon you.

The Shaykh: And upon you peace.

The questioner : How is our master, the Shaykh?

The Shaykh : Praise be to Allah, I am well. How are you?

The questioner : I have a question. May Allah reward you.

The Shaykh: Go ahead.

The questioner : My master, the Shaykh, in our days, the custom of people regarding marriage is that they serve this coffee and say, "The girl has come to you," which means it becomes a formal agreement. Is this considered an offer and acceptance?

The Shaykh : This depends on custom, and I do not know it.

The questioner : Okay, if it is...

The Shaykh : And the people of the house, yes?!

The questioner : An offer and acceptance, is that it?

The Shaykh: Yes.

The questioner : Okay, may Allah reward you with good.

The Shaykh : And beware of that.

The questioner: Peace be upon you.

The Shaykh : And upon you be the mercy and blessings of Allah.