Q. While teaching in a private school, I was attracted to one of my students and decided to marry her. However, one of my friends argued that it is wrong to do so, because, according to Indian culture and philosophy, a teacher is regarded in the next position after a father. Please comment.
Bashir, Jubail
A. This may be true of Indian culture and philosophy, but it has nothing to do with Islam. In fact, Islam has abolished all restrictions on marriage that do not fit with its own teachings.
Thus, marriage with the widow or divorcee of a former adopted son is perfectly appropriate, while other cultures find it inappropriate. What your friend mentioned is Hindu philosophy. It has nothing to do with Islam. Thus, if there is no reason to prevent this marriage from the Islamic point of view, then you may marry this student of yours if you so wish and she and her family agree to this marriage.
