Many Bahá’ís fall in love with someone who belongs to another religion, or to none. The Bahá’í Faith welcomes these marriages. A Bahá’í is free to marry a Christian, a Muslim, a Jew, a Hindu, a Buddhist or a person with no faith at all. There are a few laws to understand first, though, especially about the ceremony and parental consent. This guide explains them in plain language and offers practical advice for interfaith couples.
Can a Bahá’í marry someone of another faith?
Yes. The Bahá’í teachings stress the oneness of religion and the unity of humanity. Marrying someone from a different background is seen as a natural expression of that unity, not a problem to be solved. The non-Bahá’í partner is not asked to become a Bahá’í and does not have to give up their own beliefs.
The Bahá’í laws of marriage still apply to the Bahá’í partner. In practice, this means three things:
- a Bahá’í marriage ceremony must take place;
- the consent of all living natural parents is needed; and
- if there is a second religious ceremony, a few conditions apply.
If you are new to these laws, start with our complete guide to Bahá’í marriage.
The Bahá’í ceremony is required
Any marriage involving a Bahá’í must include a Bahá’í ceremony. The ceremony is very simple. In the presence of two witnesses acceptable to the Local Spiritual Assembly, each partner says the vow:
“We will all, verily, abide by the Will of God.”
Both partners say the same words, including the partner who is not a Bahá’í. The vow speaks of God in general terms, so most people of faith feel comfortable saying it. Beyond the vow, the couple is free to design the ceremony. You can include readings, music and prayers from both traditions, in any language and any setting.
The Local Spiritual Assembly where the wedding takes place is responsible for the ceremony. Contact it early. It can explain any local requirements and how the marriage will be registered civilly.
Having a second religious ceremony
Many interfaith couples want to honour both families with two ceremonies, such as a Bahá’í ceremony and a church wedding, a nikah or a Jewish ceremony. This is allowed when a Bahá’í marries someone of another faith, provided that:
- Both ceremonies take place on the same day.
- Both are treated with equal respect. Neither one should be presented as the “real” wedding.
- The two ceremonies stay distinct. They are separate events, not blended into one service.
- The Bahá’í partner does not declare belief in the other religion. If the other ceremony requires the Bahá’í to profess that faith or make vows that would mean converting, it cannot be used.
Other couples prefer a single Bahá’í ceremony that includes readings and prayers from both traditions. This keeps things simple and can be just as meaningful for both families.
Note: two Bahá’ís marrying each other cannot hold a ceremony of another religion. The second-ceremony option applies only to marriages between a Bahá’í and someone of another faith.
Parental consent in an interfaith marriage
Bahá’í law requires the consent of all living natural parents of both partners. This applies whatever the parents’ religion, and whether or not they are Bahá’ís. It also applies at any age. Parental consent protects unity between the two families, which matters even more when the families come from different traditions.
Parents are asked to consent to the marriage to this particular person. They are not being asked to approve of the Bahá’í Faith or to attend a Bahá’í event. Consent is usually given in writing. Each parent may decide freely and does not have to give a reason.
Tips for asking non-Bahá’í parents:
- Explain why you are asking. Many parents are touched that their blessing is formally sought.
- Give them time to get to know your partner before you ask.
- Keep the request short and clear. Your Local Spiritual Assembly can suggest wording.
- If a parent hesitates, listen to their concerns patiently rather than pressing for an answer.
Raising children in an interfaith home
Couples should talk about children before the wedding, not after. Bahá’í parents are encouraged to give their children a spiritual and moral education, and the Bahá’í teachings respect each person’s right to investigate truth independently. Many interfaith families:
- teach children about both parents’ faiths openly and with respect;
- celebrate holy days from both traditions; see our Bahá’í calendar of holy days;
- agree that children will choose their own path when they reach maturity; and
- model consultation, so children see disagreements resolved with kindness.
Conversations to have before you commit
Shared values matter more than shared labels. These questions help interfaith couples check whether they are truly compatible:
- What does your faith mean to you day to day? How do you pray, worship or reflect?
- How will we observe holy days, fasts and celebrations from each tradition?
- How do we each feel about alcohol, which Bahá’ís do not drink, and about other personal practices?
- How involved will our families and religious communities be in our life?
- How will we raise and educate our children?
- How will we make decisions and resolve disagreements?
For a longer list, read our questions to ask before marriage. For how Bahá’ís approach getting to know someone, see the Bahá’í dating and courtship guide.
Step-by-step checklist
- Talk openly about faith, family and children, using the questions above.
- Contact the Local Spiritual Assembly where the wedding will be held.
- Ask for parental consent from all living natural parents of both partners.
- Decide on one ceremony or two. If you hold two, plan them for the same day and keep them distinct.
- Choose two witnesses who are acceptable to the Assembly.
- Arrange the civil side: marriage licence and registration where you live.
- Plan a ceremony that honours both of you, with the Bahá’í vow at its heart.
Common questions
Does my partner have to become a Bahá’í?
No. A Bahá’í can marry someone of any religion or none, and no one is asked to convert.
Does my non-Bahá’í partner have to say the Bahá’í vow?
Yes. Both partners say, “We will all, verily, abide by the Will of God,” in front of two witnesses.
Can we have a church, mosque or synagogue wedding too?
Yes, if the other ceremony is held on the same day as the Bahá’í ceremony, both are given equal respect, they remain distinct, and the Bahá’í partner is not required to declare faith in the other religion.
Do my partner’s parents need to consent as well?
Yes. The consent of all living natural parents of both partners is required, whatever their religion.
Where can I meet Bahá’ís and people open to the Bahá’í Faith?
Bahá’í Mingle is a free Bahai dating site for Bahá’ís and friends of the Faith around the world. You can create a free profile in a few minutes, or read our FAQ first.
This guide summarises Bahá’í marriage law as explained by Bahá’í institutions, including the compilation on family life and marriage on the official Bahá’í website and guidance published by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of Canada. It is a general introduction. For guidance on your own situation, contact your Local or National Spiritual Assembly.
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