Q: I’m married for 5 years and Masha Allah we live a happy life. And now my husband is asking permission from me for a second wife. But as of our life now I’m just thinking should I permit him for this or not because he has two big daughters of 15 years. He is unable to take care of them with some money problems. His mother is also living separate at his sister home but in need of all the childrens help. But my husband is unable to help her also. Now I’m also not living in a wealthy life with some money issues. So my question is in this case a second wife is permissible for him or not? Do I have to give permission or not?
A: The permissibility of taking a second wife is not subject to the consent of the first wife. However, if your husband experiences difficulty in financially supporting you and your family, then it will not be correct for him to take a second wife as his financial expenses and marital responsibilities will increase. Shariat has commanded us that we take on responsibilities according to how much we can manage. To take on more than we can manage is not permissible when it results in us depriving people of the rights we owe to them.
And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
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