Woman in Islam — Page 20
20 contemplates continuation of a system of plurality of wives. Besides, 4:130 was not interpreted by the Holy Prophet (peace be on him) or his companions as revoking the permission granted by 4:4; nor was such interpretation ever commended by Muslim Jurists through the centuries. The truth is that polygamy as defined and restricted by Islam is a device designed by the highest wisdom for the fostering of high moral values and the safeguarding of chastity both of males and females. It may be described as a beneficent moral and cultural safety valve. For lack of such a safety valve, societies that have sought to enforce a rigid system of monogamy have been ripped apart by promiscuity, homosexuality, lesbianism and bestiality. Unrestricted sexual indulgence has become the norm between them, and does not even attract moral disapprobation. The moral line is to be drawn not between monogamy and polygamy, but between regulation and license. In the absence of moral restraint, both monogamy and polygamy may be abused. It is the character of the relationship that exalts or debases it. As already mentioned, the ultimate purpose of marriage in Islam is winning the pleasure of Allah. Then Islam inculcates the beneficent development of all faculties and capacities through wise regulation and exercise, and disapproves of and condemns their suppression or stultification. In the early years of Islam, responding to the divine call, particularly in the case of a male, spelt the forfeiture of life. Many paid the forfeit in Mecca; many more had to pay it in Medina and other places on the field of battle. Though women were not altogether exempt, yet comparatively few of them were called upon to make the extreme sacrifice. In consequence the number of women among the Muslims rapidly increased in proportion to men. Widows and