Things to Discuss Before the Wedding

This week, we’ve been discussing marriage between a non-Muslim woman and a Muslim man. I realize that I may come across as negative in this area, and I don’t mean to. It’s just that I have seen many “mixed” marriages fall apart due to different ideas about marriage, raising children, and life in general. On the flip side, I’ve seen several of these marriages thrive. So, what’s the difference? Why do some interfaith relationships thrive while many others end in divorce? Is the issue love? Sadly, no, I don’t think that’s it. Of course, love does help and it is … Continue reading

Sex in the Muslim Marriage

Allah created men and women as two halves of a whole, made complete through marriage. The Koran says, “And among His Signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts): verily in that are Signs for those who reflect.” (Ar-Rum 30:21) Marriage should provide physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual fulfillment. Although it is rarely spoken of, lovemaking is an important part of a Muslim marriage. Sex is made legal through marriage; sex outside of marriage, whether premarital or extramarital, … Continue reading

Marriage in Trouble? Seek Help

We recently discussed that, although allowed, divorce is to be avoided whenever possible. Still, it is a fact of life that marriages do hit roadblocks, some big and some small. Maybe your wife spends too much money; maybe your husband spends too much time with his friends. Maybe he isn’t affectionate enough, maybe she’s too needy. Or maybe, the problems are more serious: infidelity, drug or alcohol use, mental or physical abuse. What’s a Muslim family to do? In traditional Muslim countries, the couple would sit down with the elders of the family. The husband, the wife, a representative from … Continue reading

Culture Clash in the Muslim Marriage

Many Muslim marriages consist of an Arab or Pakistani man and a Western-born woman. Even if both parties are Muslim, they still bring completely different backgrounds to the table, and that can create a culture clash. One thing Western Muslims learn quickly is that culture and religion are often very tightly entwined for born Muslims. [h]Household Duties[/h] One area that frequently exposes this culture clash is household chores. Although the Prophet (PBUH) was very actively involved in cleaning, cooking, and other domestic pursuits, many of today’s Muslim husbands neglect this Sunnah (example of the Prophet). My husband is helpful around … Continue reading

Roles in the Muslim Marriage

When Muslim marriage is discussed, it is often mentioned that women should submit to their husbands. Is that an accurate portrayal? Well, yes and no. Actually, a Muslim marriage is about submitting to Allah’s (God’s) will. As Muslims, we believe that Allah has given men and women distinct roles in life and in the family. We believe that men and women are created equal, but different. We believe that these differences make each uniquely suited to various roles. Women, for example, are typically more nurturing, more sensitive, and more patient. This combination makes (most) women perfectly suited to raise children, … Continue reading