Summary of the concepts of Ahl al-Sunnah
Polygyny and justice among wives
Allah permitted men to marry up to four wives.
And He conditioned this upon justice among them.
Allah the Almighty said:
"So marry what pleases you of women,
two or three or four.
“And if ye fear that ye will not deal fairly by the orphans, marry of the women, who seem good to you, two or three or four; and if ye fear that ye cannot do justice (to so many) then one (only) or (the captives) that your right hands possess. Thus it is more likely that ye will not do injustice.” (4:3)
Or what your right hands possess."
“And if ye fear that ye will not deal fairly by the orphans, marry of the women, who seem good to you, two or three or four; and if ye fear that ye cannot do justice (to so many) then one (only) or (the captives) that your right hands possess. Thus it is more likely that ye will not do injustice.” (4:3)
And the justice required
is justice in treatment, provision, and companionship.
As for justice in the feelings and emotions of the heart,
no one is obligated to achieve it.
For it is beyond human capacity.
And this is what Allah referred to in another verse, saying:
“Ye will not be able to deal equally between (your) wives, however much ye wish (to do so). But turn not altogether away (from one), leaving her as in suspense. If ye do good and keep from evil, lo! Allah is ever Forgiving, Merciful.” (4:129)
"though you would never be able to be equal between wives, even if you should strive."
“Ye will not be able to deal equally between (your) wives, however much ye wish (to do so). But turn not altogether away (from one), leaving her as in suspense. If ye do good and keep from evil, lo! Allah is ever Forgiving, Merciful.” (4:129)
"So do not incline completely [toward one] and leave another hanging."
Therefore, let no one attempt
to use this verse
as proof for the prohibition of polygyny.
For that would be to pit parts of the Book of Allah against each other,
and to interpret them in a way contrary to their intended meaning.
And the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him,
is the best example of applying justice among his wives in provision and companionship.
And despite this,
all of his wives, may Allah be pleased with them,
knew the extent of his love for the Mother of the Believers, Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her,
and his special affection for her,
and they did not blame him for that.