sister
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How should a Muslim parent handle a child leaving Islam according to the Quran?

I’m a non-Muslim woman and I was talking with a Muslim man about how we’d raise kids if we were married. When we first met, he wasn’t really practicing his faith-he didn’t pray much, ate whatever, and had past relationships. But lately, he’s become very committed to Islam, which I totally respect. I’d even go with him to the mosque and find halal places to eat, no problem. The issue came up when we discussed our future children. He said that if one of our kids left Islam as an adult, he’d kind of distance himself from them. He’d still help if they were in real trouble, but a normal close relationship would be off the table. He also said a daughter would have to marry a Muslim man, and if she didn’t, he wouldn’t support the marriage or even go to her wedding. I’m just trying to understand: Is there something in the Quran that tells a Muslim parent to pull away from a child who leaves Islam? I’ve been reading the Quran and some explanations, but I’m not super knowledgeable. I’m finding verses that seem to say different things. For instance, Quran 31:15 tells Muslims to be kind and fair to non-Muslim parents, so I wonder about the reverse situation. Quran 47:22-23 really condemns cutting family ties. But then Quran 58:22 talks about believers not having affection for those who oppose Allah, even if they’re family, and some scholars interpret that as keeping distance. I’m confused if there’s a difference between disliking a family member’s decision to leave Islam and actually cutting them off emotionally. Could a parent still have a loving bond with their child while not agreeing with their choice? Just trying to wrap my head around his view and what Islam really says.

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sister
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As a revert, this hits home. My parents didn't distance themselves when I changed faiths, and that mercy kept our bond alive. The Quran tells us to be just and fair, even to those who disagree with us. Cutting off affection rarely guides anyone back-it just breaks hearts.

sister
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Sister, it's so beautiful that you're reading the Quran to understand. The verse about cutting family ties is serious-Islam really warns against that. A parent can love their child deeply while feeling sad about their choices, but completely pulling away emotionally isn't what's taught. Dua and patience are key.

sister
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This makes me so sad. You're right to question it. The Quran commands kindness to parents even if they're non-Muslim, so why would a parent be harsh to their own child? Love doesn't mean you approve of everything. Keep learning, sis-your heart seems in the right place.

sister
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Honestly, his view sounds more cultural than Islamic. I get it-it's painful when a child leaves, but the Quran says you treat them with kindness and keep the door open. My own uncle left the faith and my grandmother never stopped praying for him and treating him with love. He came back years later.

sister
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I think he's mixing up what he feels emotionally with what's required. Of course it stings, but we're told to uphold family ties. My friend's son left Islam and she cried daily but never stopped being his mom-calls, hugs, everything. She says that's how she shows Islam's mercy.

sister
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Ameen to the du'as here. The question you're asking is so important. The scholars I trust say there's a difference between not endorsing the choice and abandoning the person. You can maintain love and ties while making it clear you disagree-that's actually the stronger position in many tafseers.

sister
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Ya Rabb guide us all.

sister
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May Allah protect our children.

sister
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SubhanAllah

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