Woman escapes a 12-year abusive marriage ruled by religious extremism. She reveals what he demanded every week: ‘because in the old testament’

A woman on TikTok is sharing her story of escaping what she describes as a 12-year abusive marriage, revealing the strict rules and restrictions she says defined much of her life during that time.

The creator says she waited seven years before publicly discussing her experience, claiming her former husband’s interpretation of religion influenced almost every part of their household, from parenting decisions to daily routines.

In a video posted by Alana, she describes what she says were years of isolation and pressure, claiming her husband’s beliefs affected everything from how the family used utilities to what items were allowed inside their home.

Alana describes the rules she says shaped her marriage

According to her account, she was expected to follow his instructions as though they carried religious authority. “I had to obey everything he said like it was a command of God,” she said, explaining that new rules were treated as if they were “the 11th commandment.”

Alana also claims she carried much of the family’s workload, including childcare and physically demanding jobs. She says she continued taking on those responsibilities while pregnant and raising young children.

“I was a mechanic, a rough carpenter. I did plumbing, electrical. I can haul trailers. I can operate heavy equipment. I can do it all,” she said, describing the range of responsibilities she took on during the marriage.

She further claims that her husband’s religious practices affected basic household routines. Alana says the family observed the Sabbath in a way that meant she could not rely on utilities during that period, forcing her to use candles for lighting and a wood-burning stove for heat.

Another part of her story that drew attention involved clothing rules. She claims her former husband required the family to wear clothing made from a single material because of his interpretation of Old Testament teachings.

“We were forced to wear 100 all one fabric clothes and what that means is the tag had to say 100 polyester 100 cotton because in the old testament it says you’re not supposed to wear mixed fabrics,” she said.

Many viewers responded with messages of support after hearing her account. One commenter wrote, “Dang…I am glad you are out of there,” while another said, “They need to make a Netflix documentary about this.”

Some commenters also focused on the family members mentioned in the video. “HIS MOTHER KNEW. Universal truth,” one commenter wrote, referencing the creator’s claim that her former mother-in-law was aware of the situation.

Another commenter shared their own reaction to the religious element of the story, writing, “Hence I’m an atheist….. hope he’s doing jail time.”

Alana says she and her children eventually left the situation and are now safe. However, she has not publicly shared details about any legal proceedings involving her former husband, and her claims have not been independently verified. TikTok has also become a place where people share their experiences leaving abusive relationships, including stories about how complicated the process of escaping can become.

Social media has also become a place where survivors and advocates share resources for people who may feel isolated or unsure where to turn. A viral TikTok hand gesture created as a discreet distress signal has previously gained attention for helping raise awareness around domestic violence cases.

At the end of her video, Alana said she wants others in similar situations to know they are not alone. “If you or anyone you know is being abused or isolated, please reach out to me. I am here for you,” she said.