The Rationale for Permissibility of Polygamy

This study seeks to furnish the rationale and philosophy for the permissibility of polygamy in Islam. It endeavors to present a coherent explanation in order to defend this rule against the existing questions and objections in the contemporary era. Elaborating on the correct method of defending the juridical and legal rules and regulations, the author presents three major views as the rationales. The most important factor for permissibility of polygamy in Islam is the dissimilarity of sexual instincts between man and woman and greater excitability and vigorousness of that instinct in men which has led to legalization of polygamy in Islam. That is because the current legal system in many countries which is based on monogamy has failed to regulate the sexual relations between men or to prevent extra-marital relationships. Conclusively, it can be said that monogamy in ordinary situations is morally more desirable and permissibility of polygamy is based on certain inevitable exigencies which have something to do with men's powerful sexual drive. Thus, only in case of need and in urgent cases, action may be taken for remarriage.