Khaberni - I have been watching the discussions, reactions, and comments circulating about the topic of polygyny, finding them swinging between absolute rejection and unconditional acceptance. However, with the stories and experiences I have seen and heard, I have formed a more serene and balanced vision, a vision that neither presents polygyny as a necessity nor denies it as a solution, but places it in its natural context which the law has permitted for multiple reasons. I fully realize that polygyny is not an open door without regulations; rather, it is a serious responsibility that only those who truly possess the ability to manage their household with fairness and compassion should undertake.
What particularly catches my attention about this topic is that when Islam legislated polygyny, it did not make it an automatic thing, but linked it to a balanced measure of justice. Justice is not merely a feeling or good intention, but a daily behavior that is evident in division, maintenance, treatment, care, and respecting the privacy and status of each wife. Perhaps the most beautiful aspect of this legislation is that it does not overlook the human side of the woman, nor does it place her in a lesser rank; instead, it ensures that her place is preserved and her rights are protected regardless of the circumstances. A husband who chooses polygyny without awareness or without the capacity for fairness essentially undermines the foundation of the idea from its roots, for polygyny without justice becomes an injustice that conflicts with the purposes of Islamic law.
Yet, discussion of polygyny is not possible without addressing the topic of the legal maintenance for women, which is one of the most important pillars of family stability. Maintenance is not just a financial obligation, but an expression of security, responsibility, and inclusion. When a woman knows that her rights are preserved, and that her husband is capable of supporting and protecting her, it instills tranquility in her heart and eases the burdens of life. I have touched on many stories how legal maintenance has played a role in stabilizing families with multiple wives, because a husband who ensures to meet the needs of each wife fairly, is the same husband who succeeds in creating a peaceful environment free from destructive jealousy or feelings of inadequacy.
While I see that polygyny may be a noble solution to real social problems, one cannot ignore that this solution only succeeds if it is preceded by a full awareness of a man about women's rights and their status, and a deep understanding of the true meaning of justice. There is no value in polygyny that is based on mere transient desire, and no good in a relationship where maintenance is wasted or the feelings of wives are marginalized. In my view, polygyny remains a refined humanitarian project when practiced with maturity and respect, and it becomes a gateway to mercy when built upon a solid foundation of justice and fairness.
Thus, I retain a positive vision towards this subject, a vision stemming from my belief that divine legislations came to serve humanity, not to exhaust it, and to achieve balance, not to stir chaos. After all, a woman, whether she is a single wife or part of a multi-wife family, deserves to be surrounded with care and respect. The justice that Allah commanded is the greatest guarantee to keep this system in harmony with human dignity and the essence of mercy that the marital relationship is built upon.
