Answered by Ustadh Tabraze Azam
Question: Assalam ‘aleykum,
I have been sexually abused during my youth, somewhat tolerating this situation. I regret it a lot. My husband keeps asking me about my past, wanting to know if I had previous relationships with other men. Should I confess my sins to him to avoid displeasing him in this life or in the hereafter when he will know about it?
Answer: Wa alaikum assalam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,
I pray that you are in the best of health and faith, insha’Allah.
No, you should not disclose anything to your future husband.
Your remorse is a clear sign of your repentance. The Holy Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The one who repents from a sin is like the one who has no sin.” Repentance wipes away the sin and its traces. [see also: A Reader on Tawba (Repentance)]
Allah Most High says: “Say: My servants who have wronged yourselves, never despair of God’s mercy. God forgives all sins: He is truly the Most Forgiving, the Most Merciful.” [Qur’an, 39.53]
See also: Can We Deny Having Committed Sins After We’ve Repented From Them? and: Should I Tell My Spouse About My Relationships Before I Got Married?
And Allah alone gives success.
wassalam,
Tabraze Azam
Checked & Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani.