Interfaith marriages raise heated questions — find out whether marrying a Christian or Jewish partner is allowed, what the main legal differences are, and what every prospective spouse must consider.
Rulings and Required Conditions for Marriage with People of the BookReading time: 2 minutes
This article offers a comprehensive examination of the rulings concerning marriage with People of the Book and reviews the important points and obligations that should be observed. Join us as we uncover the secrets of a successful married life.
Marriage with People of the Book is one of the topics discussed in Islamic jurisprudence, and there are various opinions on the matter. Marriage is a major stage in every person's life, and choosing a life partner is one of the biggest decisions anyone must make. In different societies, marriage with People of the Book (Zoroastrians, Jews and Christians) is raised as a challenging and debated issue. But are you aware of the rulings and conditions of this type of marriage?
People of the Book refers to followers of revealed religions such as Judaism and Christianity who possess a heavenly scripture.
In Shi’a jurisprudence, a Muslim man's permanent marriage with a woman who is a Person of the Book (Jewish or Christian) is not permissible, but a temporary marriage with them is not objectionable.
In Sunni jurisprudence, marriage of a Muslim man with a woman who is a Person of the Book is permissible both as a permanent marriage and as a temporary marriage.
On this point, Shi’a and Sunni jurists agree that a Muslim woman’s marriage to a man who is a Person of the Book — whether permanent or temporary — is not permissible.
If a marriage with a Person of the Book (in the ways mentioned above) is permissible, it should be noted that children are considered Muslim according to Islamic law.
Some jurists believe that marriage with People of the Book in the present day, because of changes in their lifestyle and culture, faces practical difficulties, and it is better to avoid it.
Marriage of Muslim men to women who are People of the Book is permissible provided that they are chaste; also, in the event of marriage, paying their mahr (dower) is necessary.
