𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻'𝘀 𝗕𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗳𝗶𝘁𝘀 (247)

Marrying a Second Wife Without Informing the First Question: Is it permissible for me to hide from my wife and children the fact that I have married another woman, or is it not permissible? Some of the students disagreed amongst themselves regarding this issue—some say it is permissible, while others say it is not, citing the potential harm to the children. They argue that if, by Allāh's decree, the father passes away, one son might unknowingly kill his brother, not realising he is his brother, or a man might unknowingly marry his sister, unaware that she is his sister. The question is: Is there sin associated with this potential harm? Those who say it is permissible argue that there is no sin upon him. What is the correct ruling on this matter? Sheikh Yahya ḥafidhahullāh: Allāh Almighty has said: {فَٱنكِحُوا۟ مَا طَابَ لَكُم مِّنَ ٱلنِّسَاۤءِ مَثۡنَىٰ وَثُلَـٰثَ وَرُبَـٰعَۖ فَإِنۡ خِفۡتُمۡ أَلَّا تَعۡدِلُوا۟ فَوَ ٰ⁠حِدَةً أَوۡ مَا مَلَكَتۡ أَیۡمَـٰنُكُمۡ} "Then marry those that please you of women, two or three or four. But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry only] one." [Sūrah An-Nisāʾ: 3] Thus, a man is allowed to marry, whether others are aware of it or not, due to the generality of the evidence. His marriage is valid without any issue, and denying its permissibility is problematic. The aforementioned justifications (about the potential harm) are not valid in all cases. However, the man should not persist in hiding the marriage indefinitely. For example, if he marries and keeps it hidden forever, the bonds of kinship may be neglected, and the concerns raised—such as potential issues after his death regarding marriage between relatives who are unaware of their relationship—could arise. Therefore, if matters calm down and there is peace among his family, he should inform them. Initially, some conflict may occur if he conceals the marriage temporarily, but eventually, he must be clear, ensuring that kinship ties are recognised. Brothers must know each other, and the bonds arising from the marriage must be known to avoid future problems. As for those who say it is not permissible, this view requires reconsideration. Concealing the marriage for a short time might be acceptable, but continuing to hide it can lead to the severing of family ties. Some family members may fall into poverty while others prosper, and this lack of awareness could lead to a lack of support, visitation, and recognition of kinship, as though they are not related at all. Therefore, it is essential that clarity and knowledge prevail. @womensbenefits