Is it acceptable to convert to Islam for the sake of marriage?
There are many facets to this question, and no single answer would do.First, it is not uncommon for a man to take the shahadah, shortly before or even at the marriage ceremony. For Muslims living in the west, this has become commonplace. When a person is repeating the words after you, it is not possible to look inside his heart and see what the words mean to him- on that issue things were no different 1400 years ago. In any case, ultimately it would be up to the couple, as it is in other religions.A general statement concerning the Shahadah:One converts to Islam by taking the "shahadah". Shahadah goes like this, "I bear witness that there is no god by Allah, Subhana wa Ta'alah; and I bear witness that (Prophet) Mohammad was Allah's servant and His Messenger to mankind".Now, what do those words say! What does it mean when someone says, "I bear witness..." In a court of law, a declaration that begins with those words means something? Testimony concerning one's belief in Allah and His Messenger, should be with an expression/indication of sincerity. Marriage ceremony is a solemn occasion - every promise made, whether spoken or unspoken, must come from one's heart and soul. Every word spoken must mean something. Belief is paramount, practice often takes time as long as the person keeps making an effort.I do realize that there are all kinds of Muslims in the world; including those who have never stood in prayer in years, even decades. I also believe that a Muslim is one who declares him/herself to be a Muslim. Nobody can look inside a person's heart and measure the strength of belief therein. When a person raises one's hand and takes the shahadah, that person becomes a Muslim, must be treated as a Muslim, and it is not up to anyone to doubt his/her sincerity. Islam is between a person and his God.What might be problematic is when someone declares or even indicates beforehand that he/she will utter the words - but he/she does not fully subscribe to the teaching. When it comes to following those teachings - a lot of Muslims appear to be struggling with that.
Converting to Islam for marriage?
I don't think that I could ever believe in Islam because the way Islam speaks of atheists and non muslims makes me sad. I also don't want to believe that G-d sends people to hell because he is supposed to be good. My fiance is a muslim and he strongly urges me to convert to Islam (from Judaism). I usually do what he wants easily but I just feel sad when I am forced to oppose Israel and pray against my own people. I am for a two state solution, I feel that Palestines are being mistreated etc but all of this is never enough: it feels like I have to hate myself as a muslim and oppose my family. I am sometimes afraid of hell and sometimes feel it's better to be a muslim 'just in case' but then hate my own thinking. The more I read about Islam the more I oppose it. I feel awfull and I don't know what to do. I can't live a lie. Please help me. Sorry if I offended anyone.
What position does Islam have on marriages not conducted as per Islamic rites.?
marissa-you would have noticed that muslims have avoided a reply to my question. At the most they have spoken about inter religious marriages even though I have clarified what I mean. You have given your personal opinion but what I wanted was what Islam had to say. Correct me if I am wrong - but answering my own question - In the strict Islamic interpretation - all marriages done without the ritual of the nikah are not recognised in Islam & by Allah. (the exceptions - where the people who have never heard of Islam such as lost tribes in jungles etc.). This brings us to the next logical question - should such people be stoned to death as they have committed adultery and then there is a question about their illegitimate children.