⚖️ Polygyny: rulings & justice · #54
Must a husband divide his time with the children of each household equally?
The duty of the overnight rota is owed to the wives; towards children, what is obligatory is maintenance, upbringing and fair attention according to each one's needs, not necessarily identical hours.
The Prophet ﷺ required fairness between children (Sahih al-Bukhari 2587), and every father is a guardian who will be questioned about his charge (Sahih al-Bukhari 893). Fairness to children means each child feels their father is present at important moments — school days, illness, exams, birthdays — and does not feel like a stepchild. A young child or one going through difficulties may need more time. Suggestions: note each child's important dates; attend school events for all households fairly; use video calls when apart; and avoid comparing children between homes. See Children in polygamy.
The Prophet ﷺ required fairness between children (Sahih al-Bukhari 2587), and every father is a guardian who will be questioned about his charge (Sahih al-Bukhari 893). Fairness to children means each child feels their father is present at important moments — school days, illness, exams, birthdays — and does not feel like a stepchild. A young child or one going through difficulties may need more time. Suggestions: note each child's important dates; attend school events for all households fairly; use video calls when apart; and avoid comparing children between homes. See Children in polygamy.
Sources
Sahih al-Bukhari 2587Sahih al-Bukhari 893Surah an-Nahl 16:90