Is polygyny the norm in Islam, or is the letter "fa" in the Almighty's saying, "then marry" [Quran 4:3], causative?
Source: FtawySummary from Ftawy's records · added here Sep 2, 2026
The "fa" in the Almighty's saying: "then marry" (fa-ankihu) is the "fa" that links to the apodosis (answer of the condition) and indicates causality in the verse. Its meaning is: If you fear injustice towards orphan women, then marry from other women. It is permissible for one who does not fear injustice towards orphans to marry four women if he wishes and knows he can be just. However, if he fears injustice, then he must limit himself to one.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
Read the full answer on Ftawyhttps://ftawy.com/en/questions/50527
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- Original fatwa ID
- 50527
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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