An Illicit Relationship Between Father-in-Law and Daughter-in-Law

Question

The son of a Muslim washerman died, and his daughter-in-law began living right there and serving her father-in-law. Then an illicit relationship arose between the father-in-law and the daughter-in-law, from which three girls were born. At this, the people of the neighbourhood boycotted them. Now they ask forgiveness and say: “We have made a very great mistake.” What is the ruling now concerning these children? Are these children Muslims or not?

Answer

This act is utter shamelessness and fornication. Let them repent sincerely and ask forgiveness of Allah Most High, and these two — the man and the woman — should be separated from each other so that no connection remains. These children are to be deemed Muslims; their upbringing is necessary (lazim); relations with them are not to be severed.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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