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What is the ruling on a man marrying a second wife without the first wife knowing about it? Does the husband incur a sin for failing to meet the conditions for a second marriage? Does the husband’s family’s lack of knowledge about this marriage increase the burdens on the second wife? Is it sufficient to proceed with this marriage merely due to satisfaction with his religious commitment and feeling comfortable with him, and does this feeling of comfort entail a sin?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

A husband must be just in dividing nights among his wives. However, there is no harm if one of them waives her right, or a part of it, even if this occurs at the time of the marriage contract. Thus, you may waive your right to spend the night, either absolutely or for a specific period. Good treatment and living together in kindness bring marital happiness. As for the groom's family not knowing him, its impact may vary depending on societies and circumstances, and one should perform Istikhara (prayer for guidance) and consult with people of sound judgment. Accepting a suitor because one is pleased with his religious commitment and character is reassuring, but other impediments may exist. Merely feeling comfortable with a suitor is not sinful, as long as it does not lead to something forbidden, like khalwa (unlawful seclusion).

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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