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 notion that polygamy first appearednamely, among Muslims, is erroneous. The tradition of taking a wife 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, later in some societies the abuse of this practice began.
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), and the desirability or prohibition of polygamy for every single man.
The rationale for polygamy among Muslims
If we go into the study of polygamy,it can be found 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 it is permissible and in some cases even desirable. So, let's figure out why polygamy is allowed in Islam.
Historically, the firstpolygamy is practiced in those areas where the male population is less 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. In this case, 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 allcases and not to 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 must equally provide all wives. This refers to food, wardrobe, housing, furniture and so on. That is, everyone should receive everything that she needs.
A man agrees to offer a separate accommodation forall their 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 the rights.
The husband should spend with his wives equalamount of time. Thus, the distribution should be fair not only material goods, but also attention. The only exception is when one of the wives gives the spouse permission to spend less time with her than with the others. However, 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 should equally care for children born from different wives. Here the principle of uniformity must be observed even more carefully and scrupulously.
Thus, the conditions of polygamy in Islamsuch 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 exactly when Islam is allowed polygamy, and when not.
In cases where a man wants to marry a second time because of 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, in order to strengthen his position in society, then polygamy is not very desirable for him, but acceptable.
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 Koran does not limit the man. However, it is desirable for the spouse to inform her and discuss this issue in order not to endanger the family happiness and harmony.
It is also possible for a woman to remain the only and beloved wife if this requirement is negotiated and fixed when drawing up the marriage contract.
Family benefits
According to Muslims, polygamy helps to solvemany family problems. In particular, significantly reduces the likelihood of marital infidelity 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 increaseoffspring as one of the most important principles of the prosperity of the people. This factor also originates from the past, when men died in wars. In order for the population to increase, it was necessary to have many women capable of having children.
Benefits for society
There are social reasons whyIslam polygamy is allowed. As mentioned above, in areas where there are fewer males, the percentage of unmarried rises. A legitimate polygamy allows every woman to be under the protection and care of her husband and experience the joys of motherhood.
A weighty reason explaining polygamy,is to protect the nation from sexually transmitted diseases, abortions and street children. The number of divorces decreases, and the first wife may not be afraid of being abandoned, even if there is a cooling in the relationship. She will continue to enjoy honor and respect.
Polygamy in different countries
In most Muslim countriespolygamy is allowed and is a legal rule. But not everywhere. For example, in Turkey it is prohibited by law since the beginning of the last century. It is also not allowed in Algeria and Tunisia. A prerequisite for 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.
And, for example, in France, where polygamy is also prohibited, an exception was made for immigrants from Muslim countries in this matter.
A relic of the past or good?
Many women find it difficult and sometimes impossible.come to terms with the fact that they will not be the only ones for their husbands. It is especially difficult to understand polygamy for people who profess a different faith. Therefore, around this topic is so hot controversy. Someone considers polygamy a relic of the past and a path to debauchery. Others are good.
Of course, everyone decides for himself what to consider polygamy in Islam. Photos of happy families, where everyone lives in peace and harmony, convince of the wisdom of this tradition.
On the other hand, there are also cases when a manabuses his right to marry again. He remarries only for pleasure, and as soon as the young companion gets tired of him, divorces her. Therefore, of course, it is worth weighing everything before agreeing to the role of the second or third spouse.
In any case, polygamy is notcompulsory practice. Today, the overwhelming majority of men enter into only one marriage. After all, remarriage is not only troublesome and costly, but also hurts the first wife, even if she agrees to it.
