I am writing with regard to the article “Why are female orphans being urged to accept misyar marriages?” (Apr. 26). As far as I am aware, there is nothing known as misyar marriage in the Shariah. From its description it seems to be a form of legalized prostitution. What is the position of the senior Ulema on this? We do not hear of misyar  marriages among Muslims in any countries other than Saudi Arabia. The Qur’an is clear about the treatment of orphans. We expect Saudi Arabia to set a good example.

Ayman, Online response



II.



Saudi Arabia is a country where not having a tribe or a family is especially hard. I believe that orphan boys and girls should be paired with each other. Male and female orphans in Saudi Arabia can both relate to and understand the feeling of not having a family name and they can build their future together. Only another orphan can truly understand the profound loneliness of not having a family name especially in Saudi Arabia.

Faith777, Online response