Relationships can be difficult on their own, but for interfaith and intercultural couples, honoring both traditions adds a layer of complexity. It requires both partners to be open to each other’s faiths, and learn about, and immerse themselves in the traditions of the other. Couples who have that open spirit can create something magical together.
This article titled “The best Jewish-American-Muslim-Pakistani wedding ever”, written by Alix Wall, posted on The Jewish News of Northen California. (You can view it here), is an example of an interfaith wedding combining both faiths into a ceremony and celebration that honors both religious traditions.
“They married on Nov. 4 in Seattle to accommodate Cordova’s elderly relatives. They started with a Muslim ceremony that featured a number of South Asian cultural rituals, like placing long flower garlands on each other and feeding each other sweets. The ceremony was officiated by a female family friend, who also read some Sufi poetry. The Jewish ceremony followed, with Cordova’s childhood rabbi officiating as the couple broke the glass together.
Their signed marriage contract is both a ketubah and a nikah, representing similar Jewish and Muslim traditions. It features the Song of Songs opening, “I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine,” and includes modern egalitarian text in English, Hebrew and Urdu, the language of Pakistan.
“We feel balanced in a way that neither of us ever felt before, which is really wonderful,” Khan said. “And given that we come from South Asian and Jewish families, that was very important to us. My family truly loves Alan and his family truly loves me. We feel very loved and supported in that way as well.”
Interfaith/ Intercultural Couples Counseling
At Midtown Marriage and Family Therapy, we help interfaith couples navigate the challenges they may face. Our office is located in North Chelsea, NYC. Give us a call at (917)-968-5599 or email info@midtownmft.com.