Convert with child, living with non-Muslim parents... difficult issues
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Question
Almost three years ago I converted to Islam after being divorced and having a child from a Muslim that the marriage was to put it nicely not good at all so now I live with my family who are extremely religious Christians and I have always been raised in the church went to a Christian school where my brother-n-law now teaches and my grandfather donated the money for the new Bible building to be built and now my parents are trying to enroll my daughter in this school and I really have no authority over what to say since they tell me i am living with them and they do not want her raised by these horrible Muslims who only really care about themselves, now my ex-husband does not support his daughter and the masjid here which is not very good at all they tell me to just act as if I am Christian until I get married and move out but the problem is what should I do with my parents? this is a no win situation and I am not going to get on the internet and go find some Muslim man that I don't know what his intentions are with me to be able to get married and get out but then in the same sense I don't live in a community that has the resources to get married so what should I do?Answer
Wa `alaykum as-Salam wa rahmatullah:
In response to your letter:
Your daughter needs her schooling and a safe home which you are able to provide through her grandparents. In the absence of a viable alternative at present, it is acceptable to enroll her even in a Christian school, temporarily.
Your daughter's religion is safe as long as her mother's religion is safe. You were rightly guided to Islam, you took the right decision to leave a bad marriage, you are seeking advice in the best manner, and your intentions are for the best. You are winning and on the right track even if you cannot see that right now.
Keep your Salat firmly even if you must put everything else on hold. Stay away from bad Muslims as you would want to stay away from bad non-Muslims. Your parents are doing the best they know and their help is true; but try also to stay in touch with a Muslim family that can provide advice or moral support and relieve the pressure.
Take this time to turn to Allah and strengthen yourself with His dhikr for your daughter's sake. A parent's prayer is answered. You do not have to go on the Internet husband-hunting. Allah sees your duress and will see you safely through this test with goodness soon insha Allah, and reward for your patience.
Was-Salam
Hajj Gibril
This answer was published by SunniPath and is preserved as written. Rulings can depend on circumstances; for your own situation, consult a qualified scholar.
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