Christian Wife Refuses Islam and Discourages Him from Practicing It
Fatwa No: 84724

Question

I have been married to a Christian (non-practicing) for 13 years. I have tried to give her the message of Islam over the past several years, but she is not open towards Islam, mostly because of what she calls the restrictions of Hijab on women and her perception of decreased rights for women in Islam. I have attempted to correct her misconceptions, however we live in a non-Muslim country and she refuses to either read any books on Islam or discuss it with another person. As a matter of fact she now gets very angry with me if I try to introduce basic concepts in Islam with her.On the other hand she does not drink Alcohol and in general has no major personality flaws. I Sometimes I feel that she may have a potential of accepting Islam, Insha Allah.Under the Sharia am I to divorce her or stay married and keep trying to gently redirect her towards Islam? I must admit my wife's behavior has impact on my own practice of Islam. For example, she discourages me from fasting in Ramadan or going to the Masjid more frequently or giving Zakah /Sadaqa. Despite that, Al-hamdulillah, I am able to continue all my Ibadahs.What is my responsibility under the light of Qur'an and Hadith?Please make Du'a for me that Allah may help me continue to be a strong Muslim and lead her to Islam and follow the Straight Path, Insha Allah.

Answer

All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

You should continue advising your wife and calling her to Islam especially if you have some children from her.

You should also keep firm with Islamic teachings, applying all Islamic rites. Follow the Orders of Allah, perform the obligations (prayer, Zakat, fasting and Hajj) and avoid any bad deeds. Try to never miss praying in congregation in the mosque.

Know also that living in non-Muslim countries constitutes a great danger on the religion of the person as well as his children.
So, we advise you to move to a country where Islam is the preponderant religion, and where you could protect your children if you have way.

Allah knows best.

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