I think it is totally unfair to force someone to convert if he doesn't want to. But sometimes, religion is the only obstacle for 2 people in love and who get along really well to get married. So what do you then?
Like I said in the other thread, my mum and her family wants my bf to convert if we get married, because muslim women are not supposed to marry someone of another faith (the funny thing is that guys are allowed to as
). They're so adamant about it, and it annoys me! One of my aunty says he should do it, even if it's for face value, because she's concerned of what the community and relatives would say if they hear that their daughter is marrying a non-muslim! So basically she expects him to say to the Imam, yes I am a muslim and I have changed my name to (insert arabic name), but then after he can do as it pleases him. They won't really care what he does at home, but in front of them he would always have to 2pretend", or at least not make it obvious that he's not really a practising muslim after all. Although it looks like a possible compromise, I'm not sure I'm comfortable with this kind of deceit. My bf is seriously frowning at it as well.
What can I do. I know my mum's fam won't budge, and I don't want to alienate myself from them. Funny thing is that my mum and several of her sisters went to catholic school. Go figure. 2 of my mum's sister married christian men, and although they said they wouldn't convert, they did!
One is even a pastor today!!
I wouldn't totally mind converting to become a christian, because for me we all share the same God, and the core principles are the same. I'm more concerned with spirituality anyways. But I'm comfortable going to church (I've been there with my bf's mum 2 oe 3 times). I've got a Bible at home and I read it. I've seen sermons that moved me, and spoke to me. My kids can choose the religion they want when they grow up. I just want to instill in them a deep sene of spirituality, open-mindedness and a respect for all religion,
Maybe I'm just confused!