⚖️ Polygyny: rulings & justice · #103

My wife has a chronic illness. Should I take another wife at this time?

When your wife is ill, her need for your attention and love is at its highest, so taking on new responsibility now risks neglecting her. Loyalty is tested not in easy times, but when a spouse is weak and in need. Ask yourself whether this wish for polygyny will reduce the care she needs. If your intention is right and you are truly able to be fair without abandoning your sick wife, that is different from running away from the responsibility of caring for her. Talk with an open heart, and put first the rights of the wife who is being tested. Caring patiently for a sick spouse is a deed of great worth with Allah. See rights of husband and wife.

Sources

Surah an-Nisa' 4:3

← PreviousI cannot provide proper housing for two families. Can I still take another wife?Next →I am willing to promise to be fair, but deep down I have doubts. Is that promise enough?

Related questions

My family is pressing me to take another wife even though I feel I am not yet able. What should I do?The decision to take another wife is your responsibility before Allah, not that of the people pressing you, who w…Many of my friends practise polygyny and I feel challenged. Should I follow for the sake of status?Practising polygyny because you feel challenged, want to be accepted, or are chasing status is a weak intentio…My finances are not yet stable but my heart is drawn to someone. Should I practise polygyny?Being drawn to someone is not enough when you cannot yet provide maintenance (nafkah) for two households justly. Polygyny …My wives quarrel and each wants me to take her side. How do I stay fair?When your wives disagree, your job is to be a fair peacemaker, not a judge who automatically sides with the fa…My wife has only given birth to daughters. Is it right for me to take another wife to have a son?A child’s sex is Allah’s decree, not the wife’s fault, so making it a reason for polygyny wrongs her feelin…Is it true that I will be questioned about my fairness to my wives?Yes; justice between wives is a trust Allah will ask about, whether or not anyone else is watching. The Prophet ﷺ wa…

This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

Comments or feedback

Read only by the MYPolygyny administrator — never published.

About Us · Ask · Site Map · Privacy · Editorial policy · Disclaimer