Habz
1
As-salamu alaykum,
I hope this email finds you well. I am reaching out to seek advice regarding my marriage, as I am currently struggling with a difficult situation that is affecting me emotionally and mentally.
Some time ago, I met a woman whom I wanted to marry. However, when I informed my parents about my decision, they strongly opposed it for cultural reasons, simply because she comes from a certain city. Unfortunately, this led to many arguments between my parents and me. Despite their disapproval, I proceeded with the marriage, asking for my wife’s hand in marriage by myself. My parents did not attend the wedding and, to this day, refuse to have any relationship with my wife.
Although my relationship with my parents is still intact, they completely avoid my wife, and she, in return, refuses to have any relationship with them unless they apologize. While my wife and I generally have a good marriage, this issue causes frequent arguments. She has developed a deep hatred towards my parents and often speaks ill of them.
Over time, I have started to feel that my love for my wife is fading. I find her increasingly unattractive, and I struggle to lower my gaze, as I often think that I could have married someone my parents would have approved of. It feels as though I am being punished for my decision. Additionally, I often face awkward situations when people from my wife’s side ask whether my parents have reached out to us, which only reminds me of the ongoing conflict.
I deeply regret many aspects of this situation, and I am now questioning whether it would be better to separate, especially since we do not have children yet. Neither my wife nor I are willing to consult an Imam or take steps toward reconciliation. I constantly feel sad and have frequent thoughts that I would be happier with someone else. I also fear that if we do have children, they will grow up resenting my parents due to this conflict.
From an Islamic perspective, would it be advisable to divorce at this stage? I would sincerely appreciate your guidance on this matter.