Islamic Polygamy: Ten Dos And Don'ts

 In Surah An-Nisa (4:129). Allah says what means:

"You will never be able to do perfect justice between wives even if it is your ardent desire, so do not incline too much to one of them (by giving her more of your time and provision) so as to leave the other hanging (i.e. neither divorced nor married). And if you do justice, and do all that is right and fear Allah by keeping away from all that is wrong, then Allah is Ever Oft­Forgiving, Most Merciful."


Navigating the complexities of an Islamic polygamous home requires understanding, compassion, and adherence to Islamic principles. Here’s a guide listing ten dos and ten don’ts to help couples maintain harmony and fulfill their responsibilities in such relationships.


10 Dos in an Islamic Polygamous Home

1. Ensure Financial Stability

Make sure you have the financial means to support all wives and their children adequately.

Qur'an Reference: Surah An-Nisa (4:3) - "And if you fear that you will not deal justly with the orphan girls, then marry those that please you of [other] women, two or three or four..."


2. Treat All Wives Equally

Strive to provide equal time, attention, and resources to each wife.

Hadith Reference: Ibn Majah - "He who has two wives and does not treat them equally will come on the Day of Judgment with a side of his body hanging down."


3. Communicate Openly

Foster an environment of open communication where all wives can express their feelings and concerns.


4. Respect Individual Needs

Recognize and respect the individual needs and preferences of each wife, ensuring they feel valued.


5. Seek Knowledge

Continuously educate yourself about the rights and responsibilities of polygamous marriages through Islamic teachings.


6. Involve Wives in Decision-Making

Include all wives in important family decisions to promote unity and respect.


7. Maintain a Supportive Environment

Create a home atmosphere that encourages cooperation and support among all family members.


8. Be Patient and Understanding

Understand that emotions can run high in a polygamous setting; practice patience and empathy.


9. Encourage Family Activities

Plan family gatherings and activities that include all wives and children to strengthen family bonds.


10. Pray for Guidance

Regularly pray for wisdom and guidance in managing your responsibilities and relationships.


10 Don’ts in an Islamic Polygamous Home

1. Do Not Favor One Wife Over Another

Avoid showing favoritism, as it can lead to jealousy and discord.

Hadith Reference: Ibn Majah - "He who has two wives and does not treat them equally will come on the Day of Judgment with a side of his body hanging down."


2. Do Not Neglect Emotional Needs

Failing to address the emotional needs of each wife can lead to feelings of inadequacy and resentment.


3. Do Not Hide Financial Matters

Transparency in financial dealings is crucial; do not hide financial issues from any wife.


4. Do Not Ignore the Children’s Needs

Ensure that all children receive equal attention and support, regardless of which wife they belong to.


5. Do Not Engage in Gossip

Avoid discussing one wife with another in a negative light, as this can create mistrust.


6. Do Not Rush into Decisions

Take your time when making decisions that affect the family; hasty choices can lead to regret.


7. Do Not Allow External Influences

Protect your family from outside opinions that may disrupt harmony within the home.


8. Do Not Forget the Importance of Intimacy

Ensure that all wives feel loved and cherished; neglecting intimacy can lead to emotional distance.


9. Do Not Overlook Islamic Teachings

Always refer back to the Qur'an and Hadith for guidance in your actions and decisions.


10. Do Not Lose Sight of Your Responsibilities

Remember that with the privilege of polygamy comes the responsibility to treat all wives justly and fairly.


Conclusion

Polygamy in Islam is a significant responsibility that requires careful consideration and adherence to Islamic principles. By following these dos and don’ts, couples can create a harmonious and loving environment that honors the teachings of Islam. Remember, the key to a successful polygamous marriage lies in justice, compassion, and mutual respect.

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