What is the religious ruling on a man marrying another woman without the knowledge of his first wife, who has come to detest seeing him and wants a separation, and is it permissible for her to seek a divorce while waiving her rights?

A man marrying a second wife does not require the knowledge or permission of the first wife. The first wife is not permitted to request a divorce for this reason, for a woman's request for divorce without a compelling need is forbidden, as the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: "Any woman who asks her husband for divorce without a valid reason, the scent of Paradise will be forbidden to her." She should fear Allah, be patient with jealousy, supplicate frequently, and consider the interests of her children and the stability of her family.