The Life & Character of the Seal of Prophets (sa) - Volume II — Page 313
VII - Commencement of War with the Tribes of Najd and the Jews, the Marriage of Ḥaḍrat Fāṭimah and Ḥafṣah, and a Few Miscellaneous Incidents 313 With regards to the issue of polygamy, a fundamental discussion has already been taken up whilst alluding to the marriage of Ḥaḍrat ‘Ā’ishah ra. At this instance, it need not be repeated, but it would not be out of place to mention that the restrictions which are stipulated by Islām with regards to polygamy, and which the Holy Prophet sa practically adhered to, are such that marrying more than one wife can in no way whatsoever be classified as a means of lust and enjoyment. As a matter of fact, the truth is, that in light of these restrictions, polygamy is a very great sacrifice, which both husband and wife are compelled to offer in the interest of self, family, nation, country or religion. Moreover, a person who offers this sacrifice sits at a far greater distance from domestic peace, comfort, joy and pleasure, than such a person whose wealth, attention, time and apparent, love belongs to one woman alone. Then, it should also be remembered, that a person who marries more than once, being motivated by pleasure and lust, always pays special attention to the food, clothing and lodging, etc. , of his wives and provides them as much means as possible for their pleasure and enjoyment. However, in the life of the Holy Prophet sa a completely opposite picture is seen. Do not go far, merely open the Qur’an, which is categorically accepted as the most authentic scripture on the biography of the Holy Prophet sa. On one occasion, when wealth began to flow in from outside of Madīnah, and the Companions began to acquire some financial ease, the wives of the Holy Prophet sa submitted that now they should also receive a share of this affluence, and be somewhat compensated for the days of hardship they had spent until now. The Holy Prophet sa responded: “If you desire the life of this world and its wealth and riches, come then I will provide you the wealth of this world. However, in this case you can no longer remain to be my wives (because I wish to keep my life free from the impurity of materialistic wealth). If you desire to remain as my wives, then live with me solely for the sake of God, for my office of prophethood, and for the sake of the hereafter. In that case, you shall receive a magnificent reward from God, which