Polygamy in Islam: conditions, rules. Why is polygamy permitted in Islam?

Polygamy, or polygamy, is perhaps one of the most controversial and fascinating topics, not only in the Muslim world, but also far beyond its borders. However, it is known that it has been practiced since ancient times and was socially and culturally sound, ensuring the reproduction of offspring. Today, polygamy is not compulsory for Muslims, and in some cases is completely prohibited. This is due to certain rules and laws established by the Qur'an. We learn that today represents polygamy in Islam and whether there is an urgent need in it.

History of polygamy

The view that polygamy first appeared in Muslims is erroneous. The tradition of taking in wives several women existed since ancient times and in different civilizations. It was justified by the decrease in the number of men because of their deaths in numerous wars. But if at first it was a necessity, then later in some societies abuse of this practice began.

Men married unlimited number of women. Thus they infringed on their rights and sowed injustice, discrimination and the decline of morals.

The polygamy in Islam is completely different. This religion has established strict rules and restrictions on this issue. Basically, they relate to the number of wives (there should be no more than four), as well as the desirability or prohibition of polygamy for every single man.

The rationale for polygamy among Muslims

If you go into the study of the issue of polygamy, you can find that it is not at all obligatory. This right is given to every man. And he can decide whether to use it or not. But at the same time it is permissible and in some cases even desirable. So, let's see why in Islam polygamy is allowed.

Historically, first of all, polygamy is practiced in those areas where the male population is smaller than the female population. It is necessary that every woman could be protected and did not remain an old maid. Thus, society is protected from vices and corruption. At the same time the woman agrees to the role of the second or third wife only because she could not become the first.

Thus, polygamy in Islam is primarily intended to ensure the well-being and equal rights of all women.

Terms and conditions

However, polygamy is not permitted in all cases and not for every man. There are certain rules of polygamy in Islam that must be respected. First of all, this is justice. What is meant by this rule? We list briefly the main provisions established by the Qur'an.

• The husband should equally provide all wives. This refers to food, wardrobe, housing, furniture and so on. That is, everyone should get everything that she needs.

• A man agrees to offer a separate accommodation for all his chosen ones. The only exception is when they agree to live under the same roof, but in different parts of the house. In this case, a man can not settle one wife in a chic palace, and another - in a cramped shack. This is unfair and infringes rights.

• The husband should spend with his wives an equal amount of time. Thus, the distribution should be fair not only of material goods, but also of attention. The only exception is when one of the wives gives the spouse permission to spend less time with her than with the others. At the same time, the Sharia does not oblige the husband to equally love his women. After all, a person, even if he wishes, can not distribute this feeling in the same way.

• The husband must equally care for the children born from different wives. Here the principle of uniformity must be observed even more carefully and scrupulously.

Thus, the conditions of polygamy in Islam are such that a man should be completely fair to his chosen ones. If he is not able to provide this, then he should not marry more than once.

Sharia laws on polygamy

In Islam, there are certain provisions concerning polygamy. According to them, in different cases it can be desirable, permissible or forbidden for any man. Consider these situations in more detail to find out when Islam is allowed polygamy, and when not.

• In cases where a man wants to marry a second time because of the illness or infertility of the spouse, polygamy is desirable for him. Of course, provided that he will be fair to his chosen ones.

• If a Muslim wants to take a second spouse without special need, for example, to consolidate his position in society, then polygamy is not very desirable for him, but is permissible.

• In cases where a man is not provided materially or weak physically, or he knows that he will not be able to comply with the above requirements, polygamy for him is prohibited.

The above provisions confirm that polygamy primarily serves for the equality and well-being of women.

Islam, polygamy: rules if the first wife is against

There is an opinion that a man can remarry only with the permission of the first spouse. Is it true? So, let's go deep into Islam.

If the first wife is against, the Quran does not limit the man. However, it is advisable for the spouse to inform her and discuss this issue so as not to jeopardize family happiness and harmony.

Also for a woman there is an opportunity to remain the only and beloved wife, if this requirement is agreed and fixed in the preparation of the marriage contract.

Benefits for the family

According to Muslims, polygamy helps to solve many family problems. In particular, it significantly reduces the likelihood of adultery and divorce. It is believed that men are naturally prone to polygamy. Therefore, legal polygamy is much more preferable than treason.

Also, polygamy in Islam serves to increase the offspring as one of the most important principles of the people's prosperity. This factor also originates from the past, when men died in wars. To increase the population, it was necessary to have many women capable of giving birth to children.

Benefits for society

There are also social grounds for why polygamy is allowed in Islam. As mentioned above, in areas where there are fewer men, the percentage of unmarried people increases. And legal polygamy allows each woman to be under the protection and care of the spouse and experience the joys of motherhood.

A powerful reason, explaining polygamy, is the protection of the nation from sexually transmitted diseases, abortions and street children. Reduces the number of divorces, and the first wife can not be afraid of being abandoned, even if the relationship has cooled. She will continue to enjoy honor and respect.

Polygamy in different countries of the world

In most countries professing Islam, polygamy is allowed and is the legal norm. But not everywhere. For example, in Turkey it has been banned by law since the beginning of the last century. It is also not allowed in Algeria and Tunisia. An obligatory condition for concluding a second marriage in Iran is the consent of the first spouse. And in Syria, Morocco, Pakistan or Iraq, you first need to get permission from the authorities.

In Russia, as in most countries of the world, polygamy is prohibited and persecuted. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, there were many statements about the need to resolve it. However, in practice this was done only in Ingushetia, and even for a short while.

And, for example, in France, where polygamy is also prohibited, an exception has been made for immigrants from Muslim countries in this matter.

A remnant of the past or a blessing?

Many women find it difficult, and sometimes impossible, to accept that they will not be the only ones for their husbands. It is especially difficult to understand polygamy for people who profess another faith. Therefore, around this topic is so hot debate. Some consider polygamy a relic of the past and a path to debauchery. Others are good.

Of course, everyone decides for himself, rather than consider polygamy in Islam. Photos of happy families, where everyone lives in peace and harmony, are convinced in the wisdom of this tradition.

On the other hand, it is not uncommon for a man to abuse his right to marry again. He remarries only for the sake of pleasure, and as soon as the young companion bores him, divorces her. Therefore, of course, we should weigh everything before agreeing to the role of the second or third wife.

In any case, polygamy is not a compulsory practice. Today, the vast majority of men contract only one marriage. After repeated marriage is not only troublesome and costly, but also inflicts offense to the first spouse, even if she agrees to it.

This is only a right that a man can use at will. And it's good if he complies with all the necessary requirements. Then the world reigns in the family, and polygamy fulfills the functions historically assigned to it: to protect women and maintain moral standards.