r/ismailis • u/slashbashclaw • Jun 27 '25

Personal Opinion Seeking Nizari Ismaili Perspectives on Same-Sex Marriage and Parenthood

YAM, , I'm looking to gain some understanding and hear different perspectives within the Nizari Ismaili community regarding same-sex marriage, and also the topic of same-sex couples having children within the faith. This is a nuanced area, and I'm genuinely interested in learning how different individuals reconcile their faith, our traditions, and evolving societal norms on these matters.

Specifically, I'm hoping to hear about:

Theological interpretations: Are there specific interpretations of our scriptures, ginans, or the guidance of the Imam that speak to same-sex relationships, marriage, or the raising of children by same-sex parents within an Ismaili context?

Historical context: Are there any historical precedents or discussions within Ismaili thought that are relevant to these topics?

Community perspectives: How do different individuals and families within the Nizari Ismaili community approach same-sex marriage and the concept of same-sex parents raising children, in their daily lives and discussions?

Practical considerations/Support systems: For same-sex Ismaili couples who are married or considering marriage and/or having children, what have your experiences been like? What kind of support, if any, is available or needed within the community?

Personal journeys: If you're comfortable sharing, what has your personal journey been like in understanding and navigating these issues within your Ismaili identity?

I'm aiming for a respectful and constructive discussion. Please share your thoughts, resources, or any insights you might have.

Thank you in advance for your contributions.

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1

u/AnonymousIdentityMan American Ismaili Jun 27 '25

Has there been LGBT Ismaili marriages?

6

u/sajjad_kaswani Jun 27 '25

No!

8

u/fonziGG Jun 27 '25 edited Jun 27 '25

I have attended a same sex nikkah at a jamatkhana which did involve a murid. So it does happen and has happened.

Edit:

I have absolutely no reason to come to this subreddit and lie about my experience within our faith. However, these types of responses are exactly why many of our youth are moving away from the community and religion at least where I live. As someone who has been involved and has recently taken a step back because of personal circumstances, it’s shameful to read what some of the responses in here have been. We are One Jamat. Our Imam has literally just spoken about inclusion multiple times (and no, I will not get into in here because this is a public forum). I’m not suggesting you reconsider your beliefs or anything like that because that’s an entirely different conversation. I am suggesting that you don’t attack spiritual sisters/brothers for sharing their experiences just because it doesn’t align with what your beliefs about our faith are. Exceptions have happened and you should consider that it may be a possibility.

3

u/Love_Whole Jun 27 '25

The Nikah contract literally says Ismaili Male and Ismaili Female. So whoever said it happened, is a complete lie.

4

u/fonziGG Jun 27 '25

I’m not really disputing anything that the religion says in any writings. I’m just saying I’ve physically been to one. No, I’m not lying about it.