SECOND, THIRD AND FOURTH MARRIAGES – A BROTHER’S ADVICE
On the issue of taking a second wife, a concerned Brother proffers the following advice:
It is with much pain and concern that I am addressing this letter to you hoping for your consideration and support.
The Muslim community of South Africa has a large and increasing number of divorcees, widows and spinsters. We also know that this is a cause of much fitna in our communities. We are also aware that these women have needs; physical, emotional, financial and spiritual.
Given the shortage of men in our community, is it not time for the men to take more than one wife to address this very real and difficult situation. I am fully aware of the complexities and complications of second marriages but we cannot shirk our responsibility to help our women who are largely living within the parameters of the Sharia unlike the kuffaar women who flaunt themselves seeking husbands.
This is where the Ulama of our country need to play a constructive role by educating and encouraging the community to normalise second marriages and manage their relationships in a shariah compliant way. This means that our Ulama need to educate both the men and women on the concept and benefits of second marriages.
With your position in our society, it would be very beneficial if you could encourage our community and more especially our Ulama to promote and implement this very important sunnah of our beloved Nabi (SAW) and address this great need and challenge that is facing our society.
May Almighty Allah reward you for your kidma of the Deen.
(End of the Brother’s letter)
There is absolutely no gainsaying that marrying more than one wife is permissible. Those who object and despise such marriages, lose their Imaan. Allah Ta’ala has ordained polygamy to be permissible, and it is also the Sunnah of Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and the Sahaabah. Therefore, those who take objection should be exceptionally careful. A wrong statement can eliminate one’s Imaan.
23 Muharram 1445 – 11 August 2023