🤝 Existing wife & prospective wife · #59
I am about to become a third or fourth wife. What should I make sure of?
Make sure the husband's means and fairness have been proven in his existing marriages, that Syariah Court permission has been obtained, and that your rights are set out in writing before the contract.
Allah permits up to four wives on condition of justice, and if one fears being unjust, then only one (an-Nisa' 4:3). Each additional wife adds to the burden of maintenance, time and emotion. Key questions: how are the existing wives faring — do they receive fair maintenance and turns; what is his income and how many dependants does he have; where will you live; how will turns be divided; and will the marriage be registered with the court's permission (Act 303 s.23)? Talking to the existing wives, if possible, gives a true picture. Do not agree to a secret or border marriage. See the question on applying for a third or fourth wife.
Allah permits up to four wives on condition of justice, and if one fears being unjust, then only one (an-Nisa' 4:3). Each additional wife adds to the burden of maintenance, time and emotion. Key questions: how are the existing wives faring — do they receive fair maintenance and turns; what is his income and how many dependants does he have; where will you live; how will turns be divided; and will the marriage be registered with the court's permission (Act 303 s.23)? Talking to the existing wives, if possible, gives a true picture. Do not agree to a secret or border marriage. See the question on applying for a third or fourth wife.