Khaberni - It is first necessary to object to the use of the term “spinsterhood” because of the socially harmful judgments it carries and the diminishment of both women and men alike, as the term is a diminishing traditional one that does not reflect the reality of delayed marriage age in the modern era or its reasons or complexities. Serious scientific discourse replaces this expression with more equitable terms like “delayed age of marriage,” because it describes a social phenomenon, not an individual value.
In this context, the proposal by writer Al-Ayasra to address the phenomenon through promoting polygamy is a simplification of a complex issue into one solution, overlooking the network of economic, social, and cultural factors that produced this reality. Regardless of the varying stances on it, polygamy is not capable of addressing the deep roots that have caused the decline in marriage rates, but may increase the burden on families and amplify challenges rather than reducing them.
The most influential factor in delaying the age of marriage is the pressing economic situation faced by young people. The cost of housing, dowry, and the initial setup for marital life exceed many people’s capabilities, so much so that a young person finds themselves unable to afford an initial marriage, let alone propose a second marriage as a solution while the main obstacle is purely economic. Ignoring this aspect turns the discussion into a theoretical framework that does not touch the reality of people.
Additionally, exaggerated social appearances have raised the cost ceiling to unrealistic limits, starting from high dowries to expensive wedding celebrations, and everything in between involving formal stipulations that have nothing to do with the essence of marriage. Thus, the family institution has shifted from a natural step to a taxing economic project, reducing its appeal to both parties. Addressing this culture is more important than proposing superficial solutions that do not address the core of the problem.
Psychological and educational factors also play a central role in the phenomenon. Today’s societies witness an increase in anxiety linked to emotional stability and fear of family failure, along with changing priorities of the new generation and heightened expectations of their partner and marital life. These aspects require support, guidance, and educational revisions, not just expanding the scope of marriage without preparation or readiness.
Moreover, external factors affecting the culture of society cannot be ignored as social media pushes towards unrealistic standards in choosing a partner, fostering a culture of comparisons and excessive idealism, which contributes to delaying marriage sometimes voluntarily or due to dissatisfaction with available choices. These profound cultural shifts are not solved by polygamy but by preparing individuals to deal with reality away from fabricated images.
From a social and practical perspective, polygamy has never proven to be an effective solution for reducing delayed marriage rates. Reality shows that the percentage of men who are economically and psychologically capable of managing more than one marital relationship fairly and with financial stability is extremely limited, and conversely, polygamy may lead to family disintegration or internal conflicts, or additional financial burdens that complicate the situation further.
Addressing the phenomenon requires a realistic, comprehensive vision that starts with reforming the economic environment, changing the prevailing culture around marriage costs, enhancing psychological and educational awareness, and encouraging simple, balanced marriage models based on affection and responsibility, not appearances. As for reductionist solutions that ignore the essence in favor of superficial treatment, they will only produce more debates without any real effect.
Delayed age of marriage is a solvable social issue, but it requires courage to confront the real reasons, not escape towards superficial solutions. Society does not need polygamy as much as it needs diversification in economic alternatives, job opportunities, support programs, and initiatives that give youth the ability to start a stable life. Only with this approach can the phenomenon be addressed from its roots, and a more balanced and just social future can be built.
