⚖️ Polygyny: rulings & justice · #43

How much income is needed before one can take another wife?

The Shariah sets no specific figure; the condition is being able to provide obligatory maintenance reasonably (ma'ruf) to all wives and children, without reducing the rights of existing dependants.
Allah tells those who cannot yet afford it to keep chaste until Allah enriches them (Surah an-Nur 24:33), and maintenance is measured by one's means (Surah at-Talaq 65:7). In Malaysia, the Syariah Court assesses income, commitments and the number of dependants before granting permission for polygyny under section 23 of Act 303 and the equivalent state enactments. Work out the costs of two homes, food, schooling, healthcare, vehicles and emergency savings. See Two-household finances and Calculator.

Sources

Surah an-Nur 24:33Surah at-Talaq 65:7Act 303, s.23

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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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