Through Force or Faith? — Page 211
Chapter 4 — Interaction with non-Believers 211 People of the Book and no uncalled for restriction is imposed. The prohibition of marriage with idolaters is because the religious and spiritual harmony and moral and emotional compatibility that is needed for a successful and happy marital life cannot be attained by a Muslim in such a marriage. In Islam, marriage is not just for the gratification of physical needs but its aim is conceived to be much higher and nobler. It should also be remembered that Islam is not the first religion that has imposed such restriction. Followers of other religions also prefer marriage within their faith. Bible prohibits marriage with idolaters ‘Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons’. (Deuteronomy, 7:3) Similarly Corinthians 6:14 even prohibits any contact with them. In Nehemiah 10:28–30 some nations have been made to pledge that they shall not give their daughters to neighbouring tribes nor shall they take their daughters for their sons. Thus it should be understood that, as far as living together within a state is concerned, and social, cultural or other funda- mental human rights are concerned, they are equal for all in Islam. And the ruler is commanded to deal with all with equanimity. ( S u rah an-Nis a ’, 4:59). When it comes to matrimonial relation- ships between Muslims and non-Muslims, Islam, like other reli- gions, prohibits its followers from marrying idolaters in consider- ation of their religious needs and spiritual growth.