Who can be who 4 U!!!

A man marries a woman. This man has a son from his previous wife. His current wife has a daughter from her previous husband. Can this man’s son marry this woman’s daughter? According to the Shariah, they have the right to marry because they are not biological/full siblings. This means that they do not share the same mother and father. This is also means that this girl should observe pardah in front of this boy.

A young man marries a woman. The woman has a niece. The father of this young man can marry the niece just as he can marry the woman and his son can marry the niece of the woman.

A young man marries a woman. The woman has a daughter. The father of the young man can marry the woman’s daughter.

In the same way, when you call someone aunt, sister or brother, that statement does not render her or him your actual aunt, sister or brother. The person will remain a stranger and pardah should be observed. If you ever used the word ‘sister’ to address a woman, it does not automatically prevent you from marrying her because she is not your blood sister in reality. According to the Shariah, there is no impediment. You may refrain from marrying her if you do not feel at ease. But, nevertheless, it is halal and permissible. The Shariah dictates who your father, mother, brother, sister and others are to you. It is not us who decide.

[English version of " Who can be who 4 U !!!" – Al Jamiat Vol.8 No.2]