Salaam - I’m a non-Muslim man getting to know a Muslim woman and I have questions about faith and relationships
As-salaam alaykum, I’m a non-Muslim man who’s been getting to know a Muslim woman from Kyrgyzstan online for the last month and a half, and I have a few questions about Islam and how relationships fit with the faith. For a bit of background: I live simply and try to make good choices. I was raised Christian but my family moved between denominations, and my faith became weak over time. We met on a language exchange app about 1.5 months ago and have gotten to know each other well. We’ve always been polite and respectful, talked about careers and even marriage and children. We used to message every morning and every night, and things felt really good. A couple of days ago she told me she’s Muslim and reminded me that her faith forbids casual texting and expressions of romantic interest outside of proper boundaries. It didn’t feel like a breakup - she didn’t cut me off - but she set the limits she needs to follow, and I want to respect that. We have a very deep connection. She said she’d never met anyone with a character and interests like mine. Even though we’ve only known each other a short time, I’m beginning to wonder if there’s a deeper reason we connected. She suggested maybe it’s fate, maybe a sign from God, maybe a lesson. I find myself asking: could this be guidance toward Islam? I want to pray about it, but I haven’t embraced Islam yet - how would I pray to the Creator without being Muslim? I’m trying to be honest with myself about whether these thoughts come from genuine guidance or just my desire to be with her. If she hadn’t set those boundaries and we had continued, would I eventually have accepted Islam? She even shared the Shahada with me and said that if I choose Islam, I should say it with conviction. I’ve drifted from active Christian practice over the years because of the denomination changes and some hypocrisy I noticed. Still, I feel drawn to learn more about Islam and the Quran. As a child I used to listen to the adhan on YouTube and it moved me; hearing it still lifts my spirit. Also, coincidentally, I’ve avoided alcohol, smoking, and drugs my whole life, and for some years I’ve cut pork out of my diet for health reasons - small things that felt notable to me. I’d really appreciate your thoughts, concerns, and any advice about exploring the faith. If you can point me to beginner-friendly resources - videos, websites, translations of the Quran, or ways to pray or learn more - that would help a lot. Jazakum Allah khair for any help.