Polygyny in Islam
Fatwa No: 81469

Question

Is it possible for Muslim men to marry more than one and up to four wives without any reason?

Answer

All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

A Muslim man could marry two, three or four wives. But the important condition is that he should be able to bear all the expenditures of marital life and should be able physically for polygyny. Allah Says (what means): {…then marry those that please you of [other] women, two or three or four. But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry only] one or those your right hand possesses. That is more suitable that you may not incline [to injustice].} [Quran 4:3]

Most people believe that the second marriage is because the first wife is not acceptable, or that she has some defects. This is a wrong concept. But whosoever wants to marry more than one wife should fear Allah and be just with his wives in expenditure, overnight stay, and housing.

Allah knows best.

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