Originally Posted by firmbeliever
Assalaam alaikum sister,
I would never have thought of letting the man I marry to have another wife while still married to me, way back when I was single.It never crossed my mind.
After marrying and having a baby, I have become more aware of myself and my religion.I also see women being abandoned by their husbands all over the world without a care,I see the children lost,struggling in a life of chaos.And not just in wars,but in everyday normal society.
I understand better the permission Allah,the All Wise has given men to marry more than one.For if a man was a good muslim,he would be just between the wives and also take good care of his stepchildren if there are any.
And more importantly if he is a good muslim,he would also think more than twice about marrying for a second or third time,as this would mean more pressure emotionally and financially to do just.And knowing Allah(swa) loves those who deal justly and dislikes those who are unjust,he will not like to take the risk unless he is very sure.
In the same way,I trust my husband to be a good muslim,which is why I said "IF" in capital letters because I do not see him marrying another in the future,but circumstances change and there might come a day that a second marriage is needed (for him,for me in illness or for the other woman who is in greater need).And for having chosen to agree does not mean that it will be easy for me.
The other thing that made me decide was if Allah (swa) has given man permission to marry then I would not be one to stop my man's right to marry again.Allah(swa) is the Most Just and All Knowing.
I agree with you there are many men who take this permission to their advantage and marry women whom they cannot or will not treat equally.These men are answerable to Allah (swa) and they will be judged according to their intentions.My advise to any woman who is in such a marriage, will be to find a way out of it.
Regarding the jealousy feeling,if it is only within you and you are struggling against it for the sake of Allah,but still wish to continue the marriage,Insha Allah such a woman will be rewarded for her patience and perseverance.
As it is normal to feel jealousy and insecurity in such circumstances,the husband as a good muslim must help both wives deal with their jealousy and help them understand his feelings on the matter and assure them that he will not be unjust to either of them or their children.
I hope I have given you a little insight into my views,and please feel free to ask anything you wish to...
Wa alaikum salaam