How do I tell my Muslim family that I am not religious/agnostic?

Question

I think the question speaks for itself. I have recently left my religion; but every time I talk with my parents the subject of religion always pops in. I have told them that I regularly miss religious events (without giving true reason of my absence) yet I haven't got the nerve to tell my family that I am agnostic.

I am also very very fearful of the backlash resulting from revealing the truth.

Thanks.

I do live in the United States and my parents are relatively liberal, except for religion.

Answer 1

then you have nothing to offer them, it is not like converting to Christianity and then you want to save them. Keep your social ties with them you have nothing to lose. I am an atheist and my parents are Muslims I just keep ties with them even in religious holidays since I have nothing to offer them and nothing to loose and I do not dis approve trier religion. But things could be different with girl friend or spouse.

Answer 2

Good luck with that. I changed religions - from Methodist ( a Christian denomination) to Mormon (another Christian denomination- although very different in some aspects) and my parents, one a Methodist, the other non-church going Christian just about had a heart attack and my Mom all but disowned me. It's been difficult, but I have hope they will one day understand where I'm coming from.
In your case though, I too would be worried about the backlash, especially given the history of Muslims who leave their religion. If I were you, I think I would have to ask myself how important it is that I "come out" (so to speak), and how likely is it that I will receive harsh backlash.

Answer 3

I would do it long distance from another country. Apostates are supposed to be killed.

Maybe ask an out of the closet homosexual how he told his family...that's the kind of shock you will get.

Seriously, all you can to is speak the truth and hope that your family still loves you. Blood should be a thick tie, even than religion.

Good luck to you.

Answer 4

You either tell them or you don't, they will eventually figure it out and ask you what is going on..
If you are in a primarily Muslim country, I would be very careful. If you live where you have freedom then they just have to accept your decision. You might have to move to another country.

Answer 5

Depends on where you're at. If you're in a free country that allows you to leave Islam, just come out and tell them. If you're in a Muslim run country, just keep your mouth shut or you face being killed as an apostate.

Answer 6

I would feel very sad a parent!

If you were my son I would most definately disown you and would never want to see you again!

Unfortunately thats how i feel .I have no words left for you!

Answer 7

Wow that's a tough one. I realize you don't believe in God, but I'll pray that no harm comes to you for expressing your true beliefs. I also hope it doesn't cause your parents to distance themselves from you.

Best wishes!

Answer 8

don't bother it will just cause and unneed riff. i think what you need to is some soul searching for yourself and choose what you want to do. you might want to look at some other religons and philosophy. perhaps you another reason that your not telling us about for why you are givein up your religon.

Answer 9

Tell them the truth, and trust that you are more important to your family than your belief system.

It's the same advice I would give a Christian who gives up their faith.

Answer 10

Get emotional and tell them. They won't disown you. They will be upset, but won't deny you. Just have confidence