Status of maintaining ties of kinship in Islam

A: Maintaining the ties of kinship is obligatory and it is Haram (prohibited) to sever them. This is based on the Shar`y (Islamically lawful) evidence, which is reported from the Qur'an and the Sunnah. However, if such maintenance will result in Munkar (that which is unacceptable or disapproved of by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect) and you are able to change it, you must continue visiting your relatives to maintain these ties and change the Munkar. If you are unable to change the Munkar, abstain from visiting them in the place where Munkar takes place and maintain the ties of kinship with them elsewhere. (Part No. 25; Page No. 337) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.