Dealing with 2 Different Beliefs

Canada
October 2, 2007 11:17am CST
My friend and I were having a discussion about religion. What if one was to marry someone that has a different religion for example a christian marrying a muslim. How difficult do you think it would be to get along? I think one could get along and be very understanding but what happens when it comes to children? How would you raise your children? What religion or belief do they follow? Do you teach them both religions and let me choose their own? Any thoughts???
3 people like this
6 responses
@lilaclady (28207)
• Australia
2 Oct 07
Hmmm this is so hard, personally I think unless one partner is not really into the other psrtners religion then both should be given up. I am not a religious person so maybe I should not comment, but I feel if teo people are of different religions then neither one should have to go into the other partners. I think to give both up is the fairest way to go, one does not have to belong to a religion, people can believe from within if they wish, I think it is sad that religions that no-one knows which is the true one can have such an impact. As I have said many times there are so many books out there in the name of religions, there can only be one if any, and who knows which one is the true one, so who knows if all are just books written by joe blow from many years ago...I think the heart rules and your inner voice is all one needs to listen to.
@dpurchas (91)
• United States
3 Oct 07
Boy - that is a tough one. You'd like to think that love can be enough, but religion can be a hurdle that can't be jumped in this case. In your example, Christians believe there is a very specific way to get to heaven that doesn't include other belief systems. It is pretty specific. I know that in Catholicism that you can't be a practicing Catholic and marry outside of the religion. The spouse is required to be converted in order to continue to practice. My mother had to do that to marry my father. Knowing what I do about some of the different religions, I just don't know how you could have a couple from two different ones like that and still practice the religions in your home in harmony. Power to anyone that does!
• United States
4 Oct 07
That's interesting. I wonder why my mother had to convert in order for them to marry. Maybe it was a family thing rather than a church thing, but I don't see my mom doing that for his family. But that is good to hear that you can get along without stepping on each others toes religiously. I have become rather cynical with society lately and just didn't think that something as sensitive as that could be gotten around.
@rosie_123 (6113)
3 Oct 07
Well I am not religious at all, so I guess I am not that qualified to answer here. To me, if two people love each other and want to spend their lives together, and raise children together, then what "religion" they follow is totally immaterial. They can both do their own thing, and respect each others' views. As for children, well I suggest they teach their children about both religions so that they are well-informed and prepared, and as they get older they will make their own decision about which to follow, or reject. I know some people will think differently because their religion is all-encompassing to them, and their lives revolve around their Church/Mosque or whatever, but I think for most ordinary people it is not a problem at all.
@Bunsdk (242)
• Denmark
3 Oct 07
My cousin married a muslim, and she is a protestant. Their two kids are being schooled in ALL religions, and are to choose their own religion if they want one. They feel that as parents its not their job to force anything down on them, but rather to enlighten them of all the choices possible and let them learn that choices matters. I think thats a very good view on how to do it. But thats mostly becuse Im the same type. I Myself is an atheist, ive dated a muslim myself and lots of protestants, we just never bother with concerning ourselves with religions in those situations where we dont agree. If one party is rather zealous about it though they shouldnt be together, and most likely wouldnt even be. Having "mixed" marriage demands an openmindedness to be able to make sure the relationship works.
• Philippines
3 Oct 07
In my place, South Cotabato, Philippines, the population is mostly composed of both Christians and Muslims. Though there is always this belief that Muslims are violent people but if you get to know them better they are not what other people think. We are so lucky because Christians and Muslims in our place know how to respect each other -- except for a few radicals who are somewhat geared towards terrorism. but generally, I think the problem is not on the difference of the belief but its more on the difference of traditions and norms that sometimes clashes.
@shadowing (308)
• Malaysia
3 Oct 07
Hi matteo. To me, I don't think it have to be that tough. I mean couple have to deal with the issue before they get married, right? It doesn't have any point to argue about religion after marriage. Moreover, if a person married a Muslim, I mean in my country, they don't have to think about it also, definitely he or she have to be a Muslim as well for sure.(solve all the problem). Well, for children, I think children should be given an open option for their choice. One of my friends, her family members are all Taoist but she turned out to be the only Christian in the family. Well, it's just my point of view ;p