Can a Muslim Woman Marry an athiest ?

Question : Can a Muslim Woman Marry an athiest ? If his ikhlaq is good and he is kind.

All Praise be to Allah

Summary: No, it is not permissible for a Muslim woman to marry an atheist, regardless of his character or kindness. The marriage contract between a Muslim woman and a non-believer is considered invalid in Islam.

Detailed Answer: It is unanimously agreed by scholars that a Muslim woman cannot marry a non-Muslim, whether he is an atheist, a Christian, or a Jew. The marriage would be considered invalid, and the marriage contract null. The Quran explicitly states:

“And give not (your daughters) in marriage to Al-Mushrikoon (polytheists) till they believe” [Al-Baqarah 2:221].

Islam also teaches that the husband is responsible for his family, and in a marriage, he has authority over his wife. It is impermissible for a non-Muslim to have authority over a Muslim woman. Hence, a Muslim woman cannot be in a marital relationship with an atheist. If a woman knowingly marries a non-Muslim despite this ruling, it is equated to zina (adultery), and the marriage is deemed void. However, if she was unaware of the ruling, she is excused, but they must be separated, without needing a formal divorce as the marriage was never valid in the first place.

And Allah Knows Best