Is Having More Than One Wife Okay in the Bible?
Throughout history, the concept of polygamy has been a topic of great debate and controversy. In many cultures, having multiple wives has been accepted and practiced. However, when it comes to the Bible, the question of whether it is permissible to have more than one wife is often asked. This article delves into the biblical perspective on polygamy, examining various aspects and providing a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
What is Polygamy?
Polygamy is the practice of having more than one spouse at the same time. It can be categorized into two types: polygyny, where a man has multiple wives, and polyandry, where a woman has multiple husbands. Throughout history, polygamy has been prevalent in various cultures, including some ancient civilizations and certain religious traditions.
Is Polygamy Mentioned in the Bible?
Yes, polygamy is mentioned in the Bible. The Old Testament, which is the first part of the Christian Bible, contains numerous instances of polygamy. For example, Abraham, Jacob, and David are all mentioned as having multiple wives. However, it is important to note that the Bible does not explicitly condone or condemn polygamy. Instead, it presents various scenarios and allows readers to draw their own conclusions.
Abraham and Sarah
Abraham, the father of the Israelites, is one of the most prominent figures in the Bible. In Genesis 16, Abraham is mentioned to have had a relationship with Hagar, Sarah’s maidservant. This relationship resulted in the birth of Ishmael, Abraham’s first child. While this situation is often seen as an example of polygamy, it is important to note that Abraham’s marriage to Sarah was his first and primary wife. The relationship with Hagar was a result of Sarah’s barrenness and Abraham’s desire for a child.
Jacob and His Wives
Jacob, the son of Isaac and Rebekah, is another example of polygamy in the Bible. In Genesis 29, Jacob marries two sisters, Leah and Rachel, and later on, he also marries Bilhah and Zilpah, the handmaids of Leah and Rachel, respectively. This polygamous arrangement was a result of the cultural practices of the time and Jacob’s love for Rachel. The story of Jacob and his wives is a complex one, involving deceit, jealousy, and forgiveness.
David and His Many Wives
King David, one of the greatest kings of Israel, is also mentioned in the Bible as having multiple wives. In 1 Samuel 18, David is described as having eight wives and several concubines. The Bible does not explicitly condemn David’s polygamy, but it does mention instances where his actions, such as taking Uriah’s wife Bathsheba, led to moral and spiritual consequences.
Is Polygamy Permitted in the New Testament?
The New Testament, which is the second part of the Christian Bible, does not explicitly address the issue of polygamy. However, some scholars argue that the teachings of Jesus and the apostles imply that polygamy is not permissible. For example, in Matthew 19:4-6, Jesus states, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.” This teaching can be interpreted as a rejection of polygamy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bible does not explicitly condone or condemn polygamy. While there are instances of polygamy mentioned in the Old Testament, the New Testament does not explicitly address the issue. It is important to consider the cultural and historical context in which these stories were written. Ultimately, whether or not having more than one wife is considered acceptable is a matter of personal belief and interpretation of the biblical texts.
