Polygamy is one of the most misunderstood aspects of Islam, and in this episode of The Deen Show Radio, Dr. Bilal Philips — author of over 50 books including “Polygamy in Islam” and Dean of the Islamic Online University — provides a comprehensive, rational explanation of why Allah has permitted a man to marry up to four wives under strict conditions. Far from being oppressive to women, this divine legislation actually protects them and addresses the real problems plaguing modern society.
Why Polygamy Is Permitted in Islam
Dr. Bilal Philips explains that Islam does not have a boyfriend-girlfriend culture. There is no dating, no “test driving,” and no using and abusing women. When surveys reveal that a massive percentage of husbands in North America are involved in extramarital affairs, the question must be asked: which system truly protects women’s rights and dignity? Islam’s answer is clear: if a man desires to be with another woman, he must marry her, give her full rights, and treat her equally alongside his first wife.
“What we’re living in our societies today, where people are involved in all these extramarital affairs — that state of affairs is abnormal, it’s sick, it’s corrupt. Islam provides laws to govern polygamy within bounds, to protect the rights of those involved and to protect society from the harms of extramarital relationships.”
Key Facts About Polygamy in Islam
- Polygamy is permitted, not required — most Muslim men have only one wife
- A man must treat all wives with absolute justice and equality in terms of provision, time, and care
- Women have extensive rights in Islam: the right to own property, to inherit, to choose their spouse, and to seek divorce
- The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, was monogamously married to Khadijah for 15 years, and his later marriages all served specific social and communal purposes
“Islam has provided laws to govern every aspect of human life. When you become a Muslim, the way forward is clear. Polygamy is just one element where human needs and the needs of society are taken care of in a logical, practical way.”
Rather than something exotic or strange, polygamy in Islam is a practical solution to real human needs that exist in every society. The alternative — which is the norm in much of the Western world — is secret affairs, broken families, and women left without rights or protection. Islam addresses this reality head-on with divine legislation that is fair, transparent, and accountable. For those who want to learn more, Dr. Bilal Philips’ courses are available free at the Islamic Online University (islamiconlineuniversity.com).
