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Originally Posted by Pushpa
I think those feelings existed even in the Prophet's time. And even the scenarios you mentioned Chotoo, have limitations; I don;'t think an ordinary Joe in today's modern world would have an easy time of it if he decided to marry again, even if it was because his wife couldn't conceive, especially as there are so many options available to childless couples these days. Personally I don't think there IS a place for polygyny in a modern context.
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Being unable to concieve is just one problem, and not everyone is comfortable with adoption. What if your first wife got MS, or some other disease? There are plenty of far flung situations where legal polygyny would be helpful, but those situations are the exception, not the rule. I think most cases of polygyny are done for the wrong reasons, and that why it leads to regret in most circumstances. Then again, many first marriages are solemnized for the wrong reasons (only marrying for looks and money) so why would the second marriage be any different?
There are many situations of the second wife being abused, sometimes horendously abused, by the first wife or other family members. There are cases where the husband, though he had a good relationship with his first wife, children etc. anc couldn't afford a second wife, still marries, and then basically abandons his first wife.
So, while I won't say there is no place for polygyny in a modern context, I would say that it would have to be an extrememly regulated and controlled practice, whereby one has to obtain permision from his first wife, and consent of the second wife, and prove to a judge that it's really necessary. That's my personal take on the matter.
As for those who say that in Islam man has the right to take a second wife and doesn't need to consult his first wife or meet any conditions... remember that your first wife has rights, and you are obligated to fulfull those rights. Those rights extend beyond simply providing her with food and shelter. If you cannot fulfill her rights now, or taking a second wife would lead to you not fulfilling those rights, you would indeed be a sinner for taking a second wife. Prophet Muhammad (saw) was an exceptional man with exceptional abilities. Don't think that just because he was able to do it, you will be able to as well. Even he had domestic problems.