Monogamy in Islam
Definition
Monogamy refers to the practice of being married to one person at a time. In the Islamic context, although polygamy (specifically polygyny) is sanctioned, monogamy is considered the safest and most equitable form of matrimony due to the potential challenges of maintaining justice among multiple spouses.
Etymology
- Arabic: الزواج الأحادي (Az-Zawāj Al-Aḥādī) translates directly to monogamous marriage.
- Turkish: Tek eşlilik, meaning single-spouse marriage.
Scriptural Reference
The Qur’ān does permit polygamy under specific conditions, but it emphasizes equitable treatment among spouses. The key verse discussing this is:
<p>“And if you fear you cannot be just, then [marry] only one” (Sūrah An-Nisā’ 4:3).</p>
This implies a strong leaning towards monogamy as the practical and ethical approach for most individuals, except under certain circumstances.
Islamic Thought and Monogamy
According to traditional Islamic literature and scholars, monogamy has been praised for its simplicity and the ease of maintaining justice. A prominent example is found in the work Akhlāq-i-Jalālī:
<p>“Excepting, indeed, in the case of kings, who marry to multiply offspring, and towards whom the wife has no alternative but obedience, plurality of wives is not defensible. Even in their case it were better to be cautious; for husband and wife are like heart and body, and like as one heart cannot supply life to two bodies, one man can hardly provide for the management of two homes.” (Thompson’s English Translation, p. 266).</p>
Further Reading
To gain a deeper understanding of the Islamic perspective on marriage, readers can refer to:
- “Marriage and the Family in Islam” by Muhammad Abdul-Rauf – Discusses the nature and purposes of marriage in Islamic law.
- “Women and the Family in the Muslim World” by Lois Lamya’ al-Faruqi – Explores familial structures, including monogamy and polygamy in various Muslim societies.
- “The Family Structure in Islam” by Hammudah Abdalati – Provides comprehensive insights into family dynamics and the importance of justice in married life according to Islamic principles.
Takeaways
- Qur’anic Sanction and Preference: While the Qur’an allows polygyny, it heavily underscores fairness and equitable treatment, suggesting monogamy as the most pragmatic and just marital framework.
- Ethical Considerations: Islamic scholars have often highlighted the difficulties in maintaining justice among multiple spouses, advocating monogamy as ethically preferable.
- Cultural Continuity: Historical and contemporary Islamic literature both reflect a nuanced approach towards marriage, often privileging monogamous unions as aligned with the spiritual and practical ethos of Islam.
Conclusion
Monogamy, despite the Qur’anic allowance for polygamy, is portrayed as the safest and most responsible form of marriage within Islamic teachings. The ethical emphasis on fairness and the challenge of maintaining equal treatment among multiple spouses reinforce this preference, making monogamy a widely endorsed practice in Islamic marital jurisprudence.
