Can a Muslim woman marry a Christian man?

No. Scholars of all four Sunni schools agree that a Muslim woman can't marry a non-Muslim man, including a Christian or Jewish man. A Muslim man may marry a Christian or Jewish woman, but the reverse isn't allowed. If you love a Christian man, the path to marriage is for him to genuinely accept Islam first.

What the Quran says

لَا هُنَّ حِلٌّ لَّهُمْ وَلَا هُمْ يَحِلُّونَ لَهُنَّ "They are not lawful [wives] for them, nor are they lawful [husbands] for them." Quran 60:10

This verse is about believing women and non-Muslim men. The Quran also says: "And do not marry polytheistic men [to your women] until they believe" (Quran 2:221). Scholars have held this ruling unanimously for centuries.

Why the difference between men and women?

Scholars give several explanations:

A Muslim husband is required to respect his Christian or Jewish wife's faith, because Muslims believe in Jesus and Moses. A non-Muslim husband has no such religious obligation toward Islam.
In traditional family structures, children were usually raised in the father's religion.
The wife's freedom to practice Islam is better protected with a Muslim husband.

Even if these reasons don't fully satisfy you, Muslims accept the ruling as Allah's command.

What if he converts?

If he sincerely accepts Islam, you can marry. But conversion should be real, not just paperwork for the wedding. A husband who doesn't believe can make practicing your faith much harder later. Give him time to learn and decide for himself.

If you're already married

If you became Muslim while married to a Christian man, that's a different situation with its own rules and scholarly views. See Do I have to divorce my non-Muslim husband after becoming Muslim? For the reverse situation, see Can I stay married to my Christian wife after becoming Muslim?

A painful situation

Many converts are in relationships when they discover Islam. Ending or pausing a relationship can be heartbreaking. Be honest with him, keep boundaries while things are uncertain, and make dua for guidance for both of you. Talk to a trusted imam or a sister who's been through it.

Key points

A Muslim woman can't marry a non-Muslim man.
This includes Christian and Jewish men.
If he sincerely accepts Islam, marriage is allowed.
Already-married converts follow different rulings.

Tip: If he's curious about Islam, let him explore at his own pace with books, a mosque visit or a Muslim friend. A sincere conversion is worth waiting for.