Re: A hindu-muslim wedding!!!
Elders in our family always say that this is how the dilution of religion begins......with unclear lines of definition. Some things are stated very, very clearly in Islam.
I asked earlier whether or not the phairay may be classified in the "shirk" category. I have yet to see a general concensus on that in this discussion. My personal opinion is that, regardless of the symbolism behind them, they are shirk because they are being executed in a ritualistic manner while circling a fire. Maybe I need more education on the subject but to me the fire and the mantras add a "religious" aspect to the whole thing.
If those phairay have no significance in Hinduism save to represent the promises that are being made, then why do them that way? Because they are part of a religious ceremony. Right?
Perhaps we can ask the parents of the bride to be and see if they think it would be okay to simply recite those vows and not circle the fire. Do you think they would agree that it accomplishes the same thing? I doubt it.
I also understand the status that Islam gives to parents, particularly the mother. But what does Islam say about parents that are not Muslim? What are the teachings with respect to this matter?
The question here is not who to please and whether or not certain traditions are religious or not.....the greater question is which part of your faith are you okay with compromising........