Question
I have enjoyed reading all your comments on interfaith marriage. I myself am a Muslim woman engaged to a Christian man. My family, who are convinced that this is huge sin on my part, are putting a great deal of pressure on him to perform the Shahdah (convert). They think that by him converting, which would be in name only has he currently has no intention of really converting, it will improve my situation in the eyes of God. He and I both cannot understand how going through the motions when one’s intentions are not there will really accomplish anything. I am very torn because I want to respect his faith but I also want to do what is right as a Muslim. Will him taking the shahdah really accomplish anything from a religious point of view?
Answer
The lack of intention on his part sets up this conversion to be meaningless in respects to the religion. Your bewilderment is justified, and I trust the act is being pushed for because of their sense of fulfillment rather than something that will improve your situation before God. Keep in mind that, depending on where you live, his pronouncement may have legal implications; thus, he should be sure of the circumstances if he decides to commit without truly believing. Clearly there is no religious significance to playing out the motions without true intentions. Be sure take great care with your family’s sensitivities, which I am sure you are doing. I only mention this because they are doing what they perceive is best for you, something you probably realize.
I hope I have clarified the issue.
God knows best.