Can a Muslim Marry a Christian or Jew? Clear Answers from Islamic Jurisprudence

Rulings and Required Conditions for Marriage with People of the Book

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.

The ruling on marriage with People of the Book from the perspective of Islam

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?

Definition of People of the Book

People of the Book refers to followers of revealed religions such as Judaism and Christianity who possess a heavenly scripture.

Marriage of a Muslim man to a woman who is a Person of the Book:

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.

Marriage of a Muslim woman to a man who is a Person of the Book:

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.

Important points:

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.