Is It Permissible to Live Separately to Protect My Children's Islamic Upbringing?
Question
My sister-in-law does not observe pardah and does not cover her head or wear a scarf. Would I be sinful if I requested a separate living arrangement or maintained boundaries, as my daughters are growing up and I do not want them to be influenced? My intention is not to cut ties or disrespect her, but only to protect my children’s upbringing while maintaining family relations.
Islamic Ruling & Answer
If the situation is truly as described in the question, and there are no additional details that would change the ruling, then seeking a separate living arrangement or maintaining appropriate boundaries solely to protect your daughters' Islamic and moral upbringing is not, in itself, sinful. Parents have a duty to safeguard their children's faith, modesty, and character. Therefore, if there is a genuine concern that a particular environment may negatively influence their upbringing, it is permissible to take reasonable steps to protect them, provided this does not involve injustice, mistreatment, or severing family ties.
Accordingly, if your intention is only to protect your children's upbringing not to humiliate your sister-in-law or cut off family relations then, in principle, requesting separate accommodation or maintaining appropriate boundaries is permissible. At the same time, you should continue to treat your sister-in-law with kindness and respect, uphold family ties, and, where appropriate, advise her gently and wisely about the importance of modesty.
Answered by
Mufti Tosif Qasmi
June 28, 2026 · Updated June 29, 2026
Researched & verified under our editorial & answer-review policy.
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