Is it permissible for a Muslim man to marry a non-Muslim woman without her converting to Islam?
A Muslim man is permitted to marry a woman from among the People of the Book (a Christian or a Jew), but he is forbidden from marrying women from other religions, such as a Zoroastrian or an idol worshipper, based on the Almighty's saying: "This day [all] good foods have been made lawful for you. And the food of those who were given the Scripture is lawful for you, and your food is lawful for them. And [lawful in marriage are] the chaste women from among the believers and the chaste women from among those who were given the Scripture before you…"
Whereas a Muslim woman is forbidden from marrying a non-Muslim, whether he is from the People of the Book or an idolater, based on the Almighty's saying: "…And do not marry polytheistic women until they believe. And a believing slave woman is better than a polytheist, even though she might please you. And do not marry polytheistic men [to your women] until they believe. And a believing slave is better than a polytheist, even though he might please you. Those invite to the Fire, but Allah invites to Paradise and forgiveness, by His permission. And He makes clear His verses to the people that perhaps they may remember."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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