Muslim men are permitted in Islam to marry women from the “People of the Book” (Christians and Jews). This often raises practical questions about how to harmonize two different religious lifestyles within one household.
A primary question involves the wife’s obligations: is she required to follow Islamic rules, such as the Islamic code of dress (hijab)?
Ruling on Dress Code and Religious Freedom
Prominent Islamic scholars state that a non-Muslim wife (Christian or Jewish) is not obliged to follow Islamic commands in the same way a Muslim woman is.
A husband has no right to force his non-Muslim wife to adopt Islam or any part of its religious code. She retains full freedom to practice her own religion and what is permissible within it. This means she is not Islamically required to wear the hijab or adhere to the specific Islamic rules of modesty that are binding on Muslim women.
A Scholarly Caution on Compatibility
Despite the permissibility of such marriages, many scholars strongly caution against them, particularly for a highly committed Muslim man.
The reasoning is that the fundamental differences in religious practice, values, and lifestyle can lead to significant trouble and conflict within the marriage. Scholars often advise that marrying a committed Muslim woman, who shares the same traditions and goals, is far more likely to lead to a harmonious marital life and a strong Muslim family.
The Marriage Contract (Nikah)
Regarding the ceremony itself, it is permissible to hold the nikah (Islamic marriage contract) in a Masjid.
Following the religious ceremony, it is important to complete a civil registration with the public notary or relevant government office to ensure the legal rights of both partners are protected under civic law.
