You may wonder why I would address such an archaic concept as forced marriages. After reading an article on the prevalence of forced marriages, it is clear that the need to address this issue is real and now. If you are in a forced marriage, you know what it is like to feel trapped. This is also not a problem limited to Islamic, or Hindu populations. I have encountered this in Christian communities as well. Being in a forced marriage is a tough situation where the options are not easy or pleasant.
In ages past, your parents may have chosen your spouse for you. In such cases, you still had some choice. You could say ‘no’ to the choice made by your parents. They may have not let you know that ‘no’ was an option. When people are manipulating you, they often do not let you know all of your options. You can always choose not to do what is ‘evil’ or wrong. Making that choice does not mean that there will be no consequences for you. Your parents or others may ostracise you or threaten you. This is not pleasant, yet it may be a better option than being trapped in a marriage from hell.
So if you are forced into a marriage, is it right to have an affair? Legally, when you are forced into a choice against your will, the decision is technically null and void. Although it should be null and void, many judges and legal authorities do not want to undo those kinds of choices. It is wrong to force you to continue in them, yet the legal authorities, including religious authorities will not want to ‘rock the boat’ and challenge what has taken place.
Although the marriage should not have legal standing, there are few who are willing to undo it. In such cases, having an affair will put you on shaky ground.
Best Regards,
Jeff Murrah
