Question:
Dear Mawlana Shaykh Muhammad Hisham Kabbani, As-salaam alaikom. I was married to my First cousin three years ago. We went to Lefke to meet Mawlana Shaykh Nazim to bless our marriage and to pray for us, which he most graciously did. Ever since, I’ve tried my best to fulfill all her needs and to keep her happy. We also have a beautiful daughter. However, my wife now tells me that she’s been suffering from deep depression as she finds herself incapable of being emotionally, physically or intimately close to me because she says I’m her First cousin.
A few weeks ago, I sent her to Mawlana Shaykh Nazim to seek his guidance and advice. His holiness, in his wisdom, has advised her that she should leave me. I do not want our marriage to end nor do I want to her to disobey Mawlana Shaykh Nazim’s advice. Please advise.
Answer:
`Alaykum Salam,
The Prophet (upon him blessings and peace) said first cousins are a fine match, so such an objection is foolishness. Follow Mawlana’s advice and let her “leave you” and go to her parents’ house. If there is improvement in her state you may take her back. If not, you may grant her a divorce.
Hajj Gibril Haddad
