Why is polygyny allowed in Islam?
As for possible reasons why polygyny is allowed in Islam, one should keep in mind that Islam is very practical in the way that it addresses lifes problems. In the early years of Islam, the Muslims were involved in battles to defend themselves from their enemies. It was important to look after the widows who were left behind, and may not be financially able to look after themselves or their children. Polygyny provides a solution to this problem of a male shortage. A man who discovers that his wife is barren or is chronically ill, but who wishes to have children of his own or satisfy his natural instinct in a legitimate way, while still caring for his first wife, could turn to polygyny as a solution. Allah (SWT) says in the Quran: ” then marry (other) women of your choice, two or three, or four but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then only one….” (Surah An-Nisa, Chapter 4 Verse 3) Conditions that must be met: Certain conditions are attached to plural
