Allah alone, the All-Merciful, deserves all praise and thanks, Lord of the universe, its Creator and Sustainer. Blessings and peace be upon the last of the prophets and messengers, Muhammad, his family and Companions and all those who follow in his footsteps till the end of time.



Polygamy in Islam is a favourite topic for the critics of Islam and its message. The so-called secular and Western global domination has maligned the subject to the extent that its impact is felt worldwide. Some so called 'modern' Muslim scholars have succumbed to the propaganda. They misinterpreted the Qur'an to prove that monogamy, as preached by the West, is the only ideal concept and practice and that the Qur'an condones it.



This book is the outcome of thorough studies of sister Jameelah Jones and brother Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips. Both of whom reverted to Islam in 1971 and 1972 respectively. Their western background facilitated a deep understanding of the subject. They have dealt with it strictly in the light of the Qur'an and Sunnah and have described the important characteristics of marriage in Islam. They have provided a straightforward reply to the question of why Islam allows four wives.



The book has been well received by the readership and is key in dispelling the malignant propaganda. This is the fourth thoroughly revised edition with a number of improvements. We are happy to present it in the best possible way with the hope and prayer that Allah will make it much more beneficial to our readers.