What is the ruling on secret marriage with witnesses, paid in installments, and with the intention of not having children, for someone who fears temptation and cannot marry publicly, and whose wife is sick and bedridden with her family?

Allah Almighty has permitted a man to marry up to four women. The matter of marrying another wife is up to the husband, as long as he is able to provide for them and deal justly among his wives. The consent of the wife's family is not required; the matter rests with the husband.

As for secret marriage without announcement, it involves several concerns: 1. Contradicting the Sunnah of the Prophet, which stipulates the announcement of marriage. 2. The presence of suspicion regarding the husband entering and leaving the wife's presence without people's knowledge. 3. Contradicting the objective of Islamic Sharia concerning procreation, if the spouses endeavor to avoid it. 4. Infringing upon the child's right in case of procreation, as their lineage might be questioned.

Therefore, marriage should be announced. If announcing the marriage might lead to ostracism or abandonment, then there is no harm in concealing it from the wife's family, provided all conditions for a valid marriage are met, including witnesses, a guardian, and a dowry.