Intermarriage
Definition
In Islam, intermarriage specifically refers to the marriage of a man and a woman of differing religious backgrounds rather than differences in race or national origin. Islamic law (Shari’a) has particular guidelines governing such unions.
Etymology
The term “intermarriage” is a combination of “inter,” meaning “between or among,” and “marriage,” deriving from the Latin “maritare,” which means “to provide with a husband or wife.”
- Arabic Translation: الزواج بين الأديان (Az-zawaj bayn al-Adian)
- Turkish Translation: Dinlerarası evlilik
Islamic Law on Intermarriage
Islamic jurisprudence outlines specific guidelines for intermarriage:
Muslim Woman and Non-Muslim Man
A Muslim woman is not permitted to marry a non-Muslim man. This prohibition is broadly emphasized in the Qur’an and Hadith (the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad), particularly to ensure the preservation of the woman’s faith and to protect her religious experiences in the family dynamic.
Muslim Man and Non-Muslim Woman
A Muslim man is permitted to marry a woman from the “People of the Book” — this includes Jews and Christians. This permission is rooted in the Qur’an, in Surah Al-Ma’idah [5:5], which underscores the commonalities recognized between these Abrahamic faiths.
Scholarly Perspectives
Various Islamic scholars have interpreted these rules in the context of communal harmony, lineage, and the influence of religious teachings within a household.
Books for Further Studies
- “Marriage and Family in Islam” by Muhammad Abdul-Rauf
- “The Muslim Marriage Guide” by Ruqaiyyah Waris Maqsood
- “Understanding Islamic Law: From Classical to Contemporary” by H. Patrick Glenn
Related Entries
- Nikah (Mazhab)
- Islamic Jurisprudence
- People of the Book
Takeaways
- Intermarriage in Islamic law prioritizes religious backgrounds over nationality or ethnicity.
- A Muslim man may marry a Jewish or Christian woman, but a Muslim woman cannot marry a non-Muslim man.
- These rules aim to preserve the religious and cultural integrity of the Muslim family.
Conclusion
Intermarriage in Islam is governed by clearly defined principles aimed at sustaining religious ideals and the sociocultural fabric within a Muslim’s life. These guidelines reflect a balance between interfaith respect and religious identity, illustrating the nuanced interests addressed by Islamic jurisprudence.
Proper understanding of these laws requires careful study and consideration of theological and scholarly contexts. Scholars and believers are encouraged to refer to authenticated sources and consult knowledgeable authorities on these matters.
