Question:
Salaam.
I would like to know, I am a convert, for the past year now. My parents are Christians. Now I want to get married. I don’t know if my father can stand in at my Nikah. If not, who is permissible to do so.
Jazakallah.
Salaam
Answer:
Your father’s presence, as your Wali (guardian), is not required at your Nikah. The Shari’ah has allowed you to act on behalf of yourself. Therefore, you should find a suitable man, and in the presence of two Muslim witnesses give your hand in marriage to him. Your Nikah will most likely be performed in a Masjid, which means that a representative will have to be present on your behalf. You are free to choose any Muslim to act as your representative, preferably one with whom you are affiliated.
Your father has no right to object to your decision, since he does not possess the right of guardianship over you.
And Allah Ta’ala knows best
Ebrahim bin Zainul Abedeen Backus
Attested to as correct by:
Mufti Muhammad Ashraf
Darul Iftaa
Jameah Mahmoodiyah
Springs
28 July 2005
21 Jumaadul Ukhraa 1426