It’s all too easy to focus on the negative aspects of religion. The basic message from whichever version of God people believe in is fairly universal. Be kind to one another and spread love. But this often gets lost in translation, becoming distorted and twisted. Dogma sets in, where the word of God gets used to build barriers. When it comes to forming romantic relationships, a golden rule is to keep an open mind.
Stay positive and accept that people are individuals, each with their own interpretations of spirituality and personal tastes in relationships. Fortunately, the modern era is synonymous with acceptance and inclusivity. If you’re single and keen on dating, how do you deal with a difference in religious beliefs?
As long as you take the extra steps necessary to know and understand your partner, it is possible to thrive in an interfaith relationship. First, make sure it’s what you want. Next, be open and communicate about what differences you might have. Then, bring up important relationship topics (like sex).
Bringing People Together
Let’s take that crucial point – inclusivity. These days, anyone still harboring prejudices based on ethnicity, religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation is on the wrong side of history. With United Nations human rights legislation and laws within respective countries of the developed world, it is an offense to discriminate against anyone because of what they believe in or who they are. So, when it comes to looking for love, this is something you should feel free to explore. Going online is a fabulous way to connect with individuals of all shapes and sizes. You might also wish to explore different types of relationships.
There’s so much more to life than monogamy—sometimes, a couple looking for male attention could refer to a web platform where a variety of partnership options are available. With discreet communication channels, it can be easy for newcomers to feel welcome and enter an environment where people are open to experimenting with other consenting couples. There will also be chat rooms where you can engage in enlightening conversations with a diverse cross-section of enthusiastic singles. There will also be a range of religious backgrounds; some might share your faith, but others will see things differently. You have the choice of who to home in on to get to know better.
Would You Date Someone With A Different Religion
Accept Religious Differences
One of the cornerstones of any religion should be acceptance. You will undoubtedly come across some faiths which are more entrenched in their attitude and adherents will be less open to mixing with those outside. The important point is to keep the lines of communication open. There are religious activities you can get involved in away from your traditional place of worship, such as prayer. You could easily pray at home, at which point this is something you could share with a partner. It’s easy enough to research different prayers, which can then be adapted for various occasions. Your other half could observe you in prayer and might feel inspired to join in, too! Moments like these present an opportunity to share key moments in your beliefs.
Listen to Each Other
Human relationships rely on compatibility and communication. Even if you’re with someone whose belief system is way different, you’ll discover common ground by engaging in regular chats. However, if you like to keep in touch when you’re not together – phone calls, texts, emails, or whatever – you can keep the pot boiling with frank discussions about everything and anything. Nothing should ever be swept under the carpet during this honest dialogue. Opening up to each other will bring you closer together. Set aside time to enjoy face-to-face chats, keeping these informal by doing so over coffee or perhaps a relaxing glass of wine. Remain attentive during these get-togethers, listening to the other person, taking on board any questions they have about your religious practices, and seeking to resolve any doubts they have.
Overcoming differences
Some religions are open to polyamory. In certain sects of Islam and Christianity, it is permissible for men to have more than one wife. If you were a single female, how would you feel about your attentions being ‘rationed’? Again, the key to countering this is communication. If you feel strongly enough about your relationship, try understanding your partner’s desires. You might find yourself being converted to their point of view! How about diets? Muslims fast during Ramadan, starting upon the first sighting of a new moon, then break their fasts with feasting (known as Eid).
Your partner might not automatically expect you to join in, but you might wish to offer your support. Christians often fast at certain points of the year. A top tip: never let these festivals have the final say. Be adult about how important your relationship is, regardless of what’s going on in the outside world. Most difficulties can be resolved by making compromises and coming to an agreement. You’ll soon find out that the things you have in common, based on love and respect, far outweigh the different religious beliefs.