1. Ask A Question About Islam And Muslims
  2. Ask A Question About Islam And Muslims

Ask A Question About Islam And Muslims

176 Questions

Can a Sayyed girl marry a Sunni boy? What is the ruling in Islam about this matter? If it is allowed, but the parents do not agree, then what can be done?
Zaid Alsalami

Bismihi ta'ala

A Sayyid male/female is like every other Muslim, nad can marry a non-Sayyid/non-Sayyidah, Shi'ah or Sunni, with no difference. The one condition is she has assurance that she will not leave the Ahlul Bayt School of Thought, or negatively influenced or forced to become Sunni. 

As for parents disapproval, there must be correct understanding between families, and one must always try to get the consent and blessings of parents. 

And Allah knows best. 
In the past, I displayed disrespectful behavior and insulted both people and parents. However, they haven't shown anger or sought revenge. Should I interpret this as their forgiveness or do I have to approach each person individually to seek forgiveness?
Sayyed Mohammad Al-Musawi

Their not taking revenge or not showing anger does not mean that you did not wrong them. We must seek forgiveness from everyone whom we wronged. Without that, we will be accountable in the Day of Judgement which is the hardest day for the sinners.

Wassalam.
What are some effective approaches for explaining Hijab to my non-Muslim parents residing in South America?
Amina Inloes

Personally, I try to keep it simple and say that it is for (a) modesty, and/or (b) because Islamic law says to do it. You could also say that (c) because it is something you want to do and is important to you. 

The aforementioned statements may also be suitable for you to say, however it is  important to say them in such a way that would not imply that you are criticizing your mother. (For instance, if you say that hijab adds dignity, you would not want to say it in such a way which would imply that your mother has less dignity, because she does not wear hijab.) It is often how we say things that is as important as what we actually say!

However, if they are religious Catholics, mentioning the Virgin Mary might be a helpful way to connect. 

I am sure that in your heart, you know what is best to say for your situation - what comes from the heart reaches the heart. 

Best wishes!

 
My parents conducted Istikhara for a proposal that came out positive. Though my parents know the guy and his family, there is a 13-year age gap and I lack attraction towards him. As such, I am feeling uncertain, will refusing lead to future regret?
Zaid Alsalami

Bismihi ta'ala

You and your family should not rely on istikharah for making the decision of marriage. Istikharah should not be the primary tool to be used for marriage selection. 

The age gap that you mentioned is not really a major issue, and could be overlooked, if there is compatibility and commonalities and attraction towards each other.

However, as you said there is no attraction, and you do not have that certainty in this marriage proposal, then I would recommend you not rush into this, and not allow your parents to pressure you. 

You have every right to decline this proposal as well, and if you are doing the right thing, you wont need to regret in the future.

For marriage, the important thing is him being religious, having good morals, good reputation, and there being compatibility between you and him. 

Sit with him, once or twice, or even three times, and ask the right questions, especially about future plans and what your ambitions and goals are, and how his views agree with you or not, and then make your decision. Not based on istikharah, but based on the information you have.

With prayers for your success.