The Dating Rituals Of Modern Muslims Explained
May 6th, 2008 by Chris Channing
Muslims in Islamic countries are very strict on the relationships that younger generations have with one another. Essentially- dating in the western sense if forbidden. But there are a few alternatives to the strict Muslim practices that have given youth the ability to network socially without breaking any Muslim rules or laws.
Islam Muslims are very logical in their way of marriage decisions. It is typical for a Muslim to be paired with a mate based on their parent’s decision, of whom will find a mate based on compatibility. This seeks to erase any chance that romance will blind the decisions of the youth when deciding on a mate, and will thus lead to a better marriage.
But dating isn’t totally against the Muslim community, especially with the modern Muslims wanting change in the system they wish to modify. Some types of dating are allowed where they would otherwise be forbidden. Lenient Muslims, most usually American Muslims, may even disregard the rules and engage in some types of dating anyways.
Western civilizations have had a large impact on the Muslim community in terms of dating. Some Muslim Americans will even practice their Muslim traditions only on holidays- disregarding many laws in the process. While this is unlawful, statistics show Muslim Americans are becoming increasingly lenient to the fact.
Halal dating is the light at the end of the tunnel for Muslims looking to date yet still remain obedient to Muslim law. Halal dating allows Muslims to meet based on introductions between friends and family members. Those involved will be able to get to know each other better via Internet services and phone calls.
In some cases, Halal dating will even mean that Muslims can go out on real dates. However, strict Muslim practice often demands that the dates be chaperoned or otherwise accompanied by escorts. This helps protect youth from violating any Muslim laws that are in effect, as youth often have an impaired sense of judgment.
Because of the upbringing of this new form of dating, there have been a large number of social networking websites available for Muslims in particular. These dating websites allow Muslims to connect much as previously described, and the best part is that it is permissive by Islam. Although for strict Muslims, this form of dating may not be allowed and should not be practiced without the consent of one’s parents- so as to not start any arguments or violate any laws parents may have set in stone.
In general, online dating has become a very big success for Muslims who still want to date on their own terms, but do not want to violate the Muslim code of laws. In that case, special Internet networking websites will conform to Muslim law in order to network Muslim youth together in hopes to find friends and mates in a commonplace. As time goes on, we can only watch as technology helps bring Muslims all over the world together in a common meeting place.
