Philosophy of the Marrage of Porphet (PBUH) and Polygamy

Abstract

The Prophet (PBUH) experienced three distinct phases in his marital journey. The initial phase spanned from birth until the age of 25, during which Allah (SWT) safeguarded him from committing any sins. The second phase commenced at the age of 25 and continued until the age of 48, during which the Prophet (PBUH) was married solely to Khadijah bint-e-Khuvild. The third stage of the Prophet’s marital life commenced after the age of 53, following his migration to Medina. During this period, Allah (SWT) imposed upon him the duties of holy Jihad and polygamy, both serving a common objective. The Prophet fulfilled this objective by marrying young girls and widows who were the daughters and widows of tribal chiefs, particularly in relation to the “Ghazwat” (battles). Once the war is over or near its conclusion, Allah prohibits the Prophet from entering into new marriages. Alongside the duty of holy Jihad, polygamy is initiated to align political endeavors with military actions. However, after achieving victory, marrying additional wives is forbidden. Hence, this article aims to address the question of the underlying philosophy behind the Prophet’s (PBUH) practice of polygamy. The respondent posits a hypothesis that the polygamous practices of the Prophet (PBUH) are rooted in specific philosophies. The main objective of this research, from a scientific and academic standpoint, is to provide an answer to this central question. The research methodology employed is analytical and interpretive in nature, relying on a comprehensive review of literature including hadith books, Islamic history, and writings by contemporary scholars. The results of this study suggest that the polygamous practices of the Prophet (PBUH) are driven by multiple underlying philosophies.