Can You Successfully Raise a Child With 2 Religions?

raising a child different religion

As you may have seen or heard, Janet Jackson is leaving her husband after 5 years of marriage, and merely months after giving birth to the couple’s only child, son Eissa. Although no one truly knows why, as the couple has managed to remain pretty private and out of the limelight. Some sources believe that a difference of opinion on how to raise their son, in particular, religious differences, triggered the split.

Mixing Different

Raising a child period can be tough and challenging. Adding different factors like race, culture, and religion definitely only adds to those challenges. Not saying it’s not possible, however definitely challenging. Speaking from experience, I’m currently raising my boys in a bi-cultural home. Me being African/European, and my husband being Jamaican/Canadian. Though we’re both black, culturally there are differences of opinions which when concerning the kids can get sticky. Thankfully we fundamentally have the same values, it’s just how to instill those values which may differ.

Also Related: Not Guilty: Raising a Black Son in America

Love Conquers All?

When it comes to religion though, are the fundamental values the same? I can’t speak from experience, but my guess would be it depends on which two religions. But then there’s also the argument that LOVE conquers all. Yara Shahidi, whom we know and love from “Blackish”, has a Muslim, Iranian father, and a Christian African-American mother shared this:

“I am the result of love. More specifically, Black and Iranian love. Of Shia love, of Christian love, of American love, of a love that highlights how interconnected we truly are.”

What do you think is the secret to raising a child with 2 different religions? Does the child have to choose one? Does it ever cause confusion in the child? Share your thoughts below.

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