Compatibility of Islamic Laws with Modernity: A Study of Polygamous Marriage in Relation to the Status of Women in the Islamic World

This article explores arguments for and against the allowance of polygamous marriage from both western and Islamic perspectives. It begins with a description of the historical context in which the Quran's stance on polygamy arose and a discussion of the societal status of women in the Quran. It then explores the history of polygamy and the family unit in various world cultures and religions, including historical Christianity and Confucianism. The article summarizes various modern scholarly arguments for and against polygamy, including freedom of religion and deterrence of domestic abuse. Finally, the article briefly reviews laws concerning polygamy in various Islamic countries, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Palestine.