Polygyny

Polygyny is a form of polygamy in which a man is married to two or more wives. It is distinguished from polyandry, where a woman has multiple husbands, and from other forms of plural marriage that may involve multiple partners of both sexes.

Historically and anthropologically, polygyny has occurred in many regions and eras. It is often linked to social strategies such as alliance building, wealth display, inheritance patterns, patrilineal descent, and the regulation of marriage markets. The prevalence and practice vary widely, with some societies permitting or encouraging polygyny, while others restrict or prohibit it.

Legal and religious contexts vary. In some jurisdictions polygyny is permitted or tolerated under customary or religious law, and is often regulated (for example, with requirements for consent, financial support, or equitable treatment among wives). In many other countries, polygyny is illegal or severely restricted. In Islam, polygyny is allowed under specific conditions, typically up to four wives, provided the husband can treat all wives justly; non-Muslim communities may have different rules.

Social and economic implications include family structure, gender dynamics, and resource distribution. Polygynous households can involve complex households with multiple spouses and children, affecting caregiving, inheritance, and decision-making. Critics point to potential harms, such as unequal status of wives and increased vulnerability for women and children in some arrangements, while supporters argue it can provide security and social stability in certain contexts.

Contemporary trends show declining rates in many parts of the world, though polygyny persists in various regions for cultural, religious, or economic reasons. Debates continue around gender equality, consent, and human rights within different legal and cultural frameworks.