⚖️ Polygyny: rulings & justice · #108

Before taking a second wife I had to make all sorts of promises. Do I really have to keep them?

Promises and conditions agreed before the marriage must be fulfilled; they are not just words to smooth things over. The Prophet ﷺ said: “The condition that is most rightful for you to fulfil is the condition by which you make lawful the private parts” (Sahih al-Bukhari 2721). So if you do not intend to, or cannot, fulfil a condition, do not agree to it in the first place. Making false promises to win consent is deception that will become a source of dispute. Make sure every promise about maintenance, the rota and housing is one you can truly keep. For conditions involving rights and the law, refer to the religious affairs office or the Syariah Court. Openness before the marriage contract (akad nikah) saves you after it. See conditions of polygyny.

Sources

Sahih al-Bukhari 2721

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Related questions

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

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