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Sisters Speak……<br />
<strong>Dispelling</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Fear</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>Myth</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Polygyny</strong><br />
Anchored by<br />
Tawakalt Tahir<br />
(Loveaholic)<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 1
ABSTRACT<br />
All praises all adorations, all gratitude, are<br />
due to Allah (swt), We seek refuge from<br />
<strong>the</strong> evil <strong>of</strong> ourselves, <strong>the</strong> evil<br />
consequences <strong>of</strong> our deeds. Whomever<br />
Allah guides cannot be led astray <strong>and</strong><br />
whomever He does not guide, none can<br />
guide him. I bear witness that none has<br />
<strong>the</strong> right to be worshipped but Allah who<br />
has no partner, likewise I testify that<br />
Muhammed is <strong>the</strong> messenger <strong>of</strong> Allah.<br />
May <strong>the</strong> peace <strong>and</strong> blessings <strong>of</strong> Allah be<br />
upon him, his household, his companions<br />
<strong>and</strong> all those who follow him until <strong>the</strong> day<br />
<strong>of</strong> Reckoning Amin.<br />
You are welcome to this forum, may Allah<br />
make it an ujjah for us <strong>and</strong> not against us<br />
on <strong>the</strong> day <strong>of</strong> Accountability.<br />
<strong>Polygyny</strong> has been a topic that usually<br />
attracts so much negativities among<br />
women, but negativity has not done<br />
anyone any good. Hence, <strong>the</strong> need to<br />
have this conversation among ourselves<br />
to change <strong>the</strong> narratives <strong>of</strong> polygyny.<br />
Dear sisters, we are not just here to talk<br />
<strong>and</strong> go.....WE WANT SISTERS TOWALK<br />
THE TALK. WE WANT TO CHANGE THE<br />
NARRATIVES OF POLYGYNY.<br />
May Allah write our names among those<br />
who made positive change in <strong>the</strong> practice<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sunnah. May this be an ujjah for us<br />
on <strong>the</strong> day we will be questioned on how<br />
we met Islam <strong>and</strong> how did we live it.<br />
As we are taking notes.... let's see what<br />
<strong>and</strong> what positive things that we can pick<br />
to make a change in change in our home<br />
as an only wife, as a single sister<br />
considering polygyny, as a cowife, as a<br />
friend /relative to a cowife, as parents to<br />
a cowife, as a sister, aunt or a mo<strong>the</strong>r to a<br />
polygynous man.<br />
More Muslims homes are fallen apart<br />
because <strong>of</strong> <strong>Polygyny</strong>, Sisters are giving up<br />
on good marriages because <strong>of</strong> <strong>Polygyny</strong>,<br />
loved ones are becoming enemies because<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Polygyny</strong>.<br />
Allah has not allowed polygyny to cause<br />
disunity among us…let us sit back <strong>and</strong><br />
reflect.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 2
By Allah, sisters that will be sharing with<br />
us are human being like us, flesh <strong>and</strong><br />
blood, with emotions, with jealousies,<br />
<strong>the</strong>y also love <strong>the</strong>ir husb<strong>and</strong>s, <strong>the</strong>y are<br />
also imperfect, with <strong>the</strong>ir own<br />
struggles…But have also decide to pacify<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir hearts <strong>and</strong> submit. Because <strong>the</strong>y<br />
believe in <strong>the</strong> words <strong>of</strong> Allah that He will<br />
never burden <strong>the</strong>m with what <strong>the</strong>y can’t<br />
bear <strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong>y put <strong>the</strong>ir full trust in Him.<br />
Sure, we know bro<strong>the</strong>rs have a lot <strong>of</strong><br />
shortcomings <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir own that had<br />
contributed to <strong>the</strong> negativities. But <strong>the</strong><br />
fact remains that bro<strong>the</strong>rs are marrying<br />
sisters… it <strong>the</strong> incoming sisters <strong>and</strong><br />
existing sisters are well informed about<br />
what <strong>the</strong> correct Islamic polygyny is… it<br />
will go a long way.<br />
Written by<br />
Coach Tawakalt Tahir<br />
(Loveaholic)<br />
Join <strong>the</strong> Positive <strong>Polygyny</strong> Network on<br />
Telegram;<br />
Contact: +2348034512095<br />
+2348067315867<br />
+2347031852591<br />
+2347035226356<br />
Email:<br />
lovefor<strong>the</strong>sake<strong>of</strong>allah76@gmail.com<br />
Some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> things that may hold us back<br />
from reflecting is Ego <strong>and</strong> Pride. But let us<br />
remember that <strong>the</strong>se are attribute that<br />
made shaytan become <strong>the</strong> accursed.<br />
May Allah guide our hearts, forgive our<br />
imperfections, make OBEDIENCE to His<br />
words easy for us Aameen.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 3
“POLYGYNY” NOT AN END TO A HAPPY<br />
MARRIAGE……. A FIRST WIFE’S<br />
EXPERIENCE BY DR. AMEENAH JIBRIL<br />
have decided that <strong>Polygyny</strong> will only lead<br />
me to Jannah, IN SHA ALLAH.<br />
Now to <strong>the</strong> koko <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> matter.<br />
The topic <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> day goes thus:<br />
Audhubillahi minash-shaytan ir-rajim.<br />
Bismillahi ir-Rahman ir-Raheem.<br />
Rabbi shrahli sadri, wa yassirli amri,<br />
wahlul uqdatan mil-lissani, yafqahu<br />
qawli.<br />
Assalam alaykum wa Rahmatullahi Wa<br />
Barakatuhu<br />
Alhamdulillah for <strong>the</strong> gift <strong>of</strong> life, for<br />
making us Muslims constantly striving in<br />
<strong>the</strong> path <strong>of</strong> goodness, Hoping for His<br />
Pleasure.<br />
Am sure we all have favourite verses <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Quran. One <strong>of</strong> mine is Q 89:27-30.<br />
“{to <strong>the</strong> righteous it will be said} O<br />
reassured soul, return to your Lord, well<br />
pleased <strong>and</strong> pleasing {to Him}. And enter<br />
upon my {righteous} servants. And enter<br />
my Paradise.” Every time I read or hear it,<br />
I get goose bumps imagining my Lord<br />
speaking to me directly. And I truly want<br />
Us all to be told <strong>the</strong>se same words on that<br />
Day. Which is why my personal mission<br />
statement is “Striving for Jannah” <strong>and</strong> I<br />
<strong>Polygyny</strong>……. Not an end to a happy<br />
marriage……A first wife’s experience.<br />
It goes without saying that I am a first<br />
wife.<br />
It also goes without saying that I have a<br />
co-wife (just one for now).<br />
Question: Did I have a happy marriage<br />
before polygyny? The answer would be a<br />
BIG YES. Every marriage has its ups <strong>and</strong><br />
downs, so don’t say shebi I saw you crying<br />
<strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r day.<br />
What <strong>the</strong>n is a happy marriage, you ask?<br />
It is a marriage in which you feel secure<br />
<strong>and</strong> contented with <strong>the</strong> blessings <strong>of</strong> your<br />
Lord <strong>the</strong>rein. Your marriage does not<br />
need overt wealth or children to be<br />
happy. It needs both <strong>of</strong> you to be ready to<br />
make <strong>the</strong> sacrifices that everyday living<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r <strong>of</strong> two strangers would entail.<br />
No one is perfect, so seek not perfection<br />
in your spouse.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 4
Should polygyny be a death knell on a<br />
happy Marriage? A resounding <strong>and</strong><br />
affirmative NO.<br />
How is that possible? you are asking with<br />
tears in your eyes. In answering that, we<br />
would look at <strong>the</strong> following headings:<br />
• THE CORRECT MINDSET TO HAVE A<br />
STRESS-FREE POLYGYNY<br />
• HANDLING THE EMOTIONS: THE DOs<br />
AND DONTs<br />
• HOW TO MAINTAIN A GOOD<br />
RELATIONSHIP WITH HUBBY AFTER<br />
HE TURNED POLYGYNOUS.<br />
polygamy, not to burden us, but as a test<br />
for us. He has said HE will definitely test<br />
us, <strong>and</strong> to Give glad tidings to those who<br />
are patient.<br />
Once <strong>the</strong>se words are firmly entrenched<br />
in our mindset, <strong>and</strong> we believe that Allah<br />
is The All Knowing, The Wise, <strong>the</strong>n once<br />
our o<strong>the</strong>r half declares his intention to<br />
avail himself <strong>of</strong> his God given right/duty,<br />
<strong>the</strong>n it behooves on us to be positive<br />
about this next phase <strong>of</strong> our relationship<br />
with our spouses. It most definitely<br />
should not be <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> a happy<br />
marriage.<br />
Give yourself words <strong>of</strong> affirmation thus:<br />
• This is a test I will pass, In Sha Allah<br />
THE CORRECT MINDSET TO HAVE A<br />
STRESS-FREE POLYGYNY<br />
So how should we be when polygyny<br />
looms in our horizon? The simple answer<br />
would be POSITIVE.<br />
SO, WHAT DOES POSITIVITY MEAN? It<br />
means to firmly believe in <strong>the</strong> words <strong>of</strong><br />
Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’ala) when He said<br />
in Q2:286 that “la yukallifu Allahu nafsan<br />
illa wus’aha” i.e. Allah does not<br />
charge/task a soul except {with that<br />
within} its capacity. Allah (SWT) ordained<br />
• I deserve to be happy, so nothing will<br />
take my happiness away<br />
• I have been a good wife, <strong>and</strong> so shall I<br />
remain.<br />
• I shall love my incoming sister for Allah’s<br />
sake.<br />
• I will continue to strive for Jannah, come<br />
what may.<br />
The norm is to feel like a ton <strong>of</strong> bricks has<br />
been dropped on your chest. Yes,<br />
everyone feels it. And depending on your<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 5
coping mechanisms, you will cry your eyes<br />
red. Okay, still normal <strong>and</strong> definitely<br />
allowed. But know that after <strong>the</strong> storm<br />
always comes calm. So, don’t remain in<br />
<strong>the</strong> storm. Seek <strong>the</strong> calm. Actively pursue<br />
it. Clutch it to yourself <strong>and</strong> say, “I will<br />
survive this”. It may take a few days,<br />
maybe weeks, at times months. But <strong>the</strong><br />
sooner you come out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> rut <strong>and</strong> see<br />
that your life is not coming to an end but<br />
taking a bypass to Jannah, <strong>the</strong> better you<br />
will feel.<br />
also positive ones; joy, increasing love,<br />
contentment, patience, caring, fulfillment<br />
<strong>and</strong> many more.<br />
Whichever it is one feels at any point in<br />
time, <strong>the</strong> important thing is for it not to<br />
be mismanaged.<br />
I will just mention some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Dos <strong>and</strong><br />
Don’ts <strong>of</strong> emotional management in<br />
polygyny which I have found immensely<br />
useful.<br />
Dos<br />
• Accept your husb<strong>and</strong>’s decision: You<br />
HANDLING THE EMOTIONS: THE DOs<br />
AND DONTs<br />
<strong>Polygyny</strong> comes with a myriad <strong>of</strong><br />
emotions: anger, hurt, rage. jealousy,<br />
envy, suspicion, distrust, depression,<br />
apathy, elation, euphoria, unhappiness,<br />
misery, ambivalence, feeling<br />
unappreciated, ingratitude, dazed,<br />
surprise, loss <strong>of</strong> faith in life <strong>and</strong> love. I<br />
could go on <strong>and</strong> not exhaust <strong>the</strong> list. Am<br />
sure you noticed elation <strong>and</strong> euphoria<br />
<strong>the</strong>re <strong>and</strong> you are wondering what those<br />
are doing <strong>the</strong>re, right? Well, from a first<br />
wife perspective, believe me, it is not<br />
always all negative emotions. There are<br />
may feel <strong>the</strong> time is wrong, but if Allah<br />
permits it to happen, it is happening at<br />
<strong>the</strong> right time.<br />
• Believe that your husb<strong>and</strong> has <strong>the</strong><br />
capability to love you <strong>and</strong> ano<strong>the</strong>r. Love is<br />
not finite. There is usually more than<br />
enough to go around.<br />
• Keep on loving your husb<strong>and</strong>: Someone<br />
once asked if it is not better to love <strong>the</strong>m<br />
less, so it does not hurt so much. I say<br />
love <strong>the</strong>m more for having <strong>the</strong> courage to<br />
go into polygyny. It is not easy for any <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> parties involved.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 6
• Have empathy toward <strong>the</strong> incoming<br />
wife(ves). Imagine she is your blood<br />
sister/daughter <strong>and</strong> want for her what<br />
you would have wanted for yours.<br />
• Extend <strong>the</strong> h<strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong> friendship. It may be<br />
all she needs to unleash her own<br />
goodness unto you. • Accept her <strong>of</strong>fer <strong>of</strong><br />
friendship. Do not question her motives.<br />
Instead, cleanse your heart <strong>of</strong> suspicion<br />
<strong>and</strong> doubt.<br />
• Have an upbeat attitude to everything<br />
happening. Ignore <strong>the</strong> naysayers. Seek out<br />
people with genuine good advice.<br />
Don’ts<br />
• Don’t give up: Whatever number <strong>of</strong><br />
years you have spent toge<strong>the</strong>r prior to <strong>the</strong><br />
repeat nikah can never be erased. Don’t<br />
be <strong>the</strong> one to wield <strong>the</strong> eraser for that by<br />
fading into <strong>the</strong> background.<br />
• Do not compare: Who he loves more is<br />
irrelevant. How you both manage<br />
yourselves in <strong>the</strong> sight <strong>of</strong> Allah is what<br />
matters.<br />
• Withhold your affection: That will only<br />
push him in <strong>the</strong> opposite direction.<br />
• Do not fight/insult/debase/harass your<br />
co wife: Be <strong>the</strong> one to rise above petty<br />
issues. In every relationship, someone has<br />
to be <strong>the</strong> matured one. Be that one.<br />
• Do not open your marriage for<br />
discussion by every Tom, Dick <strong>and</strong> Harry:<br />
Not everyone truly wants good for you<br />
<strong>and</strong> a lot <strong>of</strong> advice that will not benefit<br />
you will come<br />
• Do not fight your husb<strong>and</strong> on <strong>the</strong> issue:<br />
Your acceptance <strong>and</strong> underst<strong>and</strong>ing will<br />
only increase <strong>the</strong> love <strong>and</strong> respect he has<br />
for you. Your Queen status will be<br />
maintained just by that simple act.<br />
• Don’t assume you are deficient. That<br />
will only depress you more.<br />
HOW TO MAINTAIN A GOOD<br />
RELATIONSHIP WITH HUBBY AFTER HE<br />
TURNED POLYGYNOUS<br />
The secret to maintaining a good<br />
relationship with hubby after he marries<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r wife(ves) starts right from <strong>the</strong><br />
outset <strong>of</strong> your marriage to him. Make sure<br />
you choose wisely. Make him your best<br />
friend. Think about it, you quarrel with<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 7
your best friends, but you always make<br />
up. So, should it be with your spouse.<br />
• You should be able to cry in his<br />
presence.<br />
• He should be privy to your<br />
innermost hurts <strong>and</strong> hidden<br />
details. As much as possible, no<br />
secrets<br />
• He should be <strong>the</strong> first person you<br />
think <strong>of</strong> when good/bad happens<br />
to you.<br />
• Try not to think bad thoughts<br />
about him, do not insult him in<br />
your head, talk less <strong>of</strong> to his face.<br />
• Be <strong>the</strong> submissive wife, but not a<br />
doormat.<br />
This mindset makes you perpetually ready<br />
to assist him to succeed. And if he wishes<br />
to experience polygamy, <strong>the</strong>n be ready to<br />
experience it toge<strong>the</strong>r. Do not become a<br />
stumbling block in his path. Don’t turn<br />
into a screaming harpy whom he eagerly<br />
awaits dawn to rise so he can be as far<br />
away from you as possible.<br />
On <strong>the</strong> contrary, you move your<br />
relationship to <strong>the</strong> next level. And that is a<br />
place where you both respect <strong>and</strong> love<br />
each o<strong>the</strong>r but he now has a little more<br />
space to himself, <strong>and</strong> so do you. They say<br />
if you have something good, let it go. If it<br />
comes back to you, <strong>the</strong>n it is truly yours.<br />
Respect him. Treat him well. Love him.<br />
And when <strong>the</strong> time comes, let him go. He<br />
will definitely come back to you,<br />
bi‘iznillah.<br />
Be interested in <strong>the</strong> success <strong>of</strong> his<br />
subsequent marriage, but do not be too<br />
inquisitive or feel you need to know every<br />
tinsy winsy detail <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir lives. Try to<br />
build a rapport with your co wife(ves),<br />
because most men truly want to have a<br />
peaceful polygynous journey, so be <strong>the</strong><br />
pivot that launches that peace in <strong>the</strong><br />
home.<br />
He is not your property so <strong>the</strong>re is nothing<br />
like “how can I be sharing him?” or “how<br />
can he take that my thing to ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
woman <strong>and</strong> want to bring it to me<br />
again?”. Nothing like that. Sexual relations<br />
between a man <strong>and</strong> his wives is legal, so<br />
focus on making your intimacy with him<br />
worth it for both <strong>of</strong> you during your time.<br />
And worry less about what happens when<br />
he is away from you.<br />
And remember, <strong>the</strong>re is no dua left<br />
unanswered. So, at those moments when<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 8
you feel you have gotten to <strong>the</strong> limit,<br />
stop <strong>and</strong> pray <strong>and</strong> seek <strong>the</strong> face <strong>of</strong> your<br />
Lord, for He is <strong>the</strong> Source <strong>of</strong> Peace.<br />
Back to <strong>the</strong> title: For me, <strong>the</strong> journey has<br />
been almost 3 years <strong>and</strong> counting. And my<br />
marriage is happier now than it was at <strong>the</strong><br />
beginning <strong>of</strong> polygyny. The road is not all<br />
smooth, nor is it all rough. There have<br />
been ups <strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong>re have been downs. But<br />
<strong>the</strong> scale tips towards fulfillment <strong>and</strong><br />
contentment because Allah has made it<br />
easy for me to accept <strong>the</strong> path He has set<br />
out for me to thread. May Allah grant us<br />
all <strong>the</strong> strength, <strong>the</strong> patience, <strong>the</strong> ability<br />
to persevere, <strong>the</strong> ability to tolerate <strong>and</strong><br />
make excuses. And may He make <strong>the</strong><br />
journey a Path to Jannat Firdaus (Yep,<br />
always aim for <strong>the</strong> best)<br />
I seek Allah’s forgiveness for whatever<br />
wrong I may have uttered (or typed). All<br />
goodness is from Allah <strong>and</strong> all mistakes<br />
are from myself.<br />
I pray <strong>the</strong>se few words <strong>of</strong> mine will inspire<br />
someone to break <strong>the</strong> chain <strong>of</strong><br />
assumption that polygyny is a harbinger<br />
<strong>of</strong> doom to any marriage. We need to<br />
believe in <strong>the</strong> goodness <strong>the</strong>rein, <strong>and</strong> Allah<br />
will make us experience it.<br />
Subhanaka Allahuma wa bihamdika.<br />
Nashhadu an La illaha Illa anta wa<br />
nastagfiruka wa natubu ilayk. Subhana<br />
Rabbika rabbil Izzati amma yasifun. Wa<br />
salaamun alla al-mursaleen.<br />
Walhamdulillahi Rabbil Aalamin.<br />
Assalam alaykum wa Rahmatullahi wa<br />
Barakatuhu.<br />
“FACING OUR FEARS” WHY SISTERS NEED<br />
TO TALK ABOUT POLYGYNY BY SIS.<br />
KUDIRAT LAWAL ADESINA<br />
Bismillah<br />
Praise be to Allah, we seek His help <strong>and</strong><br />
His forgiveness. We seek refuge with Allah<br />
from <strong>the</strong> evil <strong>of</strong> our own souls <strong>and</strong> from<br />
our bad deeds. Whomsoever Allah guides<br />
will never be led astray, <strong>and</strong> whomsoever<br />
Allah leaves astray, no one can guide. I<br />
bear witness that <strong>the</strong>re is no god but<br />
Allah, <strong>the</strong> One, having no partner. And I<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 9
ear witness that Muhammad is His slave<br />
<strong>and</strong> Messenger.<br />
Gr<strong>and</strong>mas, mummies <strong>and</strong> sisters in faith,<br />
As-Salam alaykum warahmatullah<br />
wabarakatuh.<br />
By <strong>the</strong> will <strong>of</strong> Allah, our topic for this<br />
session is: “FACING OUR FEARS! WHY<br />
SISTERS NEED TO TALK ABOUT<br />
POLYGYNY”<br />
When Coach Tawakalt approached me to<br />
give a presentation on this topic despite<br />
my lack <strong>of</strong> practical experience on<br />
polygynous relationship, I thought to<br />
myself, how do one dive in unknown<br />
water?<br />
Anyway, I took up <strong>the</strong> challenge <strong>and</strong> here<br />
we are. Let’s go;<br />
FAC: Islam gives a man permission to<br />
marry two, three or four women, on <strong>the</strong><br />
condition that he deals justly with <strong>the</strong>m<br />
Right, today we will be considering <strong>the</strong><br />
following in sha Allah –<br />
• Our fears about <strong>the</strong> practice <strong>of</strong><br />
polygyny<br />
• The need to talk about <strong>the</strong>se fears<br />
• Who do we to talk to?<br />
You will agree with me that when it<br />
comes to polygyny majority <strong>of</strong> our fears<br />
are things out <strong>of</strong> our direct control.<br />
Dear sisters, polygyny is naturally<br />
challenging for us women. It is somewhat<br />
inherently difficult <strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong>re seem to be a<br />
natural reluctance to embrace this<br />
concept. So, do not feel guilty for <strong>the</strong><br />
emotional struggles you may be battling.<br />
I must be quick to add, that <strong>the</strong>se<br />
emotional struggles are not peculiar to<br />
first wives. The second, third <strong>and</strong> fourth<br />
wives also have <strong>the</strong>ir fears <strong>and</strong> emotional<br />
struggles - concern about fitting into an<br />
existing structure, possibility <strong>of</strong> adopting<br />
<strong>the</strong> role <strong>of</strong> a step-mum from <strong>the</strong> onset,<br />
being tagged home-wreckers or golddiggers<br />
amongst o<strong>the</strong>rs. Subhanallah!<br />
Like <strong>the</strong>se emotional struggles aren't<br />
enough - Ya Allah!!! Why can't people<br />
always act right?<br />
It is inevitable that you’ll encounter<br />
untoward behavior from your husb<strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>and</strong>/or co-wife/wives.<br />
You know what though - it helps to<br />
remember that you aren’t perfect ei<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
Remember that whatever you might feel<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 10
about <strong>the</strong>m, someone else might feel <strong>the</strong><br />
same about you. We’re all human, after<br />
all. We all have our shortcomings.<br />
Most importantly, " person, anges.”<br />
Yet, it will be detrimental to dismiss our<br />
fears <strong>and</strong> emotions. Therefore, <strong>the</strong> most<br />
prudent option is to face our fears <strong>and</strong><br />
develop strategies to manage our<br />
emotions.<br />
• ” My husb<strong>and</strong> is not financially<br />
buoyant yet, he can’t possibly be<br />
thinking <strong>of</strong> polygyny”<br />
• ” Now, that Allah has blessed us<br />
with rizq, after many years <strong>of</strong><br />
hustle, this man now consider<br />
himself qualified for polygyny”<br />
• I am younger <strong>and</strong> prettier; our<br />
husb<strong>and</strong> loves me more than her<br />
RANDOM THOUGHTS - WHO CAN<br />
RELATE?<br />
• “Well, my husb<strong>and</strong> is not <strong>the</strong><br />
polygamous type”<br />
• “Glad I am No.2, doubt he will ever<br />
take on more wives”<br />
• ” Men! why exactly do <strong>the</strong>y have<br />
need to be with more than one<br />
woman?”<br />
• ” We’ve only been married few<br />
years, he can’t possibly be thinking<br />
<strong>of</strong> taking ano<strong>the</strong>r wife so soon”<br />
• ” We’ve been toge<strong>the</strong>r so long, he<br />
will hardly ever consider ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
marriage”<br />
Anyone here telling <strong>the</strong>mselves any <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>se? I urge you to say this prayer: "Oh<br />
Allah, grant me <strong>the</strong> serenity to accept <strong>the</strong><br />
things I cannot change, <strong>the</strong> courage to<br />
change <strong>the</strong> things I can; <strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong> wisdom<br />
to know <strong>the</strong> difference”.<br />
Most <strong>of</strong> us are familiar with this remark I<br />
underst<strong>and</strong> polygyny is permissible <strong>and</strong><br />
all, but it is how men go about it that I<br />
have problem with.<br />
So, how do one approach an event that<br />
will impact one’s life, yet its<br />
implementation is not 100% within one’s<br />
control?<br />
Permit me to borrow 2<br />
from <strong>the</strong> 7 habits<br />
discussed by Stephen Covey in his book titled:<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 11
The 7 Habits <strong>of</strong> Highly Effective People<br />
1. BE PROACTIVE: There are many areas <strong>of</strong><br />
concern in our lives <strong>and</strong> in <strong>the</strong>se areas <strong>of</strong><br />
concern, we may have direct control,<br />
indirect control or no control. Now, being<br />
proactive means assessing situations,<br />
developing a positive response towards<br />
it <strong>and</strong> finding solutions ra<strong>the</strong>r than wait<br />
in a reactive mode.<br />
With polygyny, I want to assume that<br />
women have some degree <strong>of</strong> indirect<br />
control. Hence, being proactive in this<br />
instance may include:<br />
• Equipping ourselves with knowledge <strong>of</strong><br />
Islam regarding our rights <strong>and</strong><br />
boundaries in polygyny. Knowledge is<br />
empowering for a Muslimah<br />
• Learn from o<strong>the</strong>r polygyny marriages<br />
both <strong>the</strong> healthy ones <strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong> not so<br />
healthy ones.<br />
• Speak to <strong>the</strong> right people about your<br />
fears <strong>and</strong> emotions eg. Able Coach Sis.<br />
Tawakalt Tahir.<br />
Truth is, every marriage has its<br />
peculiar dynamics, so; perhaps <strong>the</strong><br />
most important discussion is <strong>the</strong><br />
one we have with <strong>the</strong> man at <strong>the</strong><br />
centre <strong>of</strong> it all.<br />
• Engage your husb<strong>and</strong> in discussion<br />
around polygyny ra<strong>the</strong>r than secretly<br />
hoping he will not take more wives.<br />
Discussion with our husb<strong>and</strong>s are not<br />
one to be laced with threats or<br />
ludicrous dem<strong>and</strong>s. Ra<strong>the</strong>r, we should<br />
be able to communicate our fears <strong>and</strong><br />
expectations constructively. We<br />
(existing <strong>and</strong> incoming wives) must be<br />
able to clarify or communicate our<br />
needs / expectations with respect to<br />
<strong>the</strong> following areas:<br />
✓ FINANCE: Existing joint business?<br />
need to clarify blurred details or<br />
let <strong>the</strong> status quo remain. Will<br />
<strong>the</strong>re be need for chairman to<br />
double his hustle etc.<br />
✓ LIVING ARRANGEMENT: Same<br />
address but different apartment to<br />
co-wives; different address.<br />
✓ CHILDREN: Educate <strong>the</strong>m, when &<br />
how to tell <strong>the</strong>m, dump <strong>the</strong>m in it<br />
<strong>and</strong> see <strong>the</strong>ir wrath. They have<br />
emotions too.<br />
State your negotiables <strong>and</strong> nonnegotiables<br />
with respect to all<br />
<strong>the</strong>se <strong>and</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r things that may<br />
be important to you.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 12
I am not suggesting we dominate<br />
our marriages with talks around<br />
polygyny ra<strong>the</strong>r I am saying that<br />
discussion around polygyny is<br />
worth having even in<br />
monogamous marriages because:<br />
• by communicating our fears, we<br />
unburden our heart.<br />
• by having <strong>the</strong>se discussions, we pave<br />
<strong>the</strong> path for informed decisions <strong>and</strong><br />
mutual agreements.<br />
• by laying our expectations bare, we<br />
may escape unpleasant surprises.<br />
• by getting involved <strong>and</strong> been proactive,<br />
we take charge <strong>of</strong> our emotions ra<strong>the</strong>r<br />
than have our emotions rule us.<br />
2. THINK WIN/WIN<br />
Win-win is a frame <strong>of</strong> mind that<br />
constantly seeks mutual benefit in all<br />
human interactions.<br />
It means agreeing on solutions that are<br />
mutually beneficial <strong>and</strong> satisfying. Whilst,<br />
been proactive may be a logical approach<br />
to polygyny, we must be reasonable<br />
enough to weigh <strong>the</strong> durability <strong>of</strong> our<br />
dem<strong>and</strong>s.<br />
Whilst it is not particularly your<br />
responsibility to make dem<strong>and</strong>s on behalf<br />
<strong>of</strong> your co-wife. It is however insensitive<br />
for your dem<strong>and</strong>s to come with<br />
conditions that tramples upon <strong>the</strong> rights<br />
<strong>of</strong> your co-wife (wives) or even that <strong>of</strong><br />
your husb<strong>and</strong>.<br />
Be win/win compliant when you set your<br />
“terms <strong>and</strong> conditions” it reduce <strong>the</strong><br />
burden <strong>of</strong> fear. You aren't plotting against<br />
anyone, why stress?<br />
In summary<br />
Peculiarities / dynamics in our individual<br />
marriages will largely determine how we<br />
approach issues but whatever approach<br />
we choose, we must never close <strong>the</strong> line<br />
<strong>of</strong> communication in our marriages.<br />
Identify <strong>the</strong> things that could mess with<br />
your emotions in polygyny <strong>and</strong> work out<br />
strategies preferably with your husb<strong>and</strong><br />
on how to manage <strong>the</strong>m.<br />
E.g. Sharing same address with cowife/wives.<br />
As one <strong>of</strong> our sisters in <strong>the</strong> polygyny<br />
support group <strong>of</strong>ten say "Co-wives are<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 13
not aliens" – <strong>the</strong>y are someone’s<br />
daughter, sister, cousin <strong>and</strong> most<br />
importantly your sisters in faith; –be<br />
pleasant <strong>and</strong> fair in your dealings with<br />
<strong>the</strong>m.<br />
Your well-being <strong>and</strong> sanity are too<br />
precious to be traded for unhealthy rivalry<br />
with potential or existing co-wives.<br />
Never allow misconceptions about<br />
polygyny push you into abominable acts<br />
that could earn you <strong>the</strong> wrath <strong>of</strong> Allah. Be<br />
Jannah focused in your relationship. Love<br />
your husb<strong>and</strong> enough to not wish him<br />
failure in his o<strong>the</strong>r marriages.<br />
POLYGAMY: A REALITY CHECK FOR THE<br />
INCOMING WIFE BY SISTER QUDRAH BINT<br />
ZA'AFARAN ADELASE<br />
Indeed, all praises <strong>and</strong> adoration belong to<br />
Allah. Blessings <strong>and</strong> salutations upon <strong>the</strong><br />
most noble among mankind Muhammad ibn<br />
Abdullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasalaam), his<br />
households, his companions; may Allah grant<br />
<strong>the</strong>m all <strong>and</strong> grant us <strong>and</strong> all subsequent<br />
generations <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Ummah every forms <strong>of</strong><br />
goodness. Ameen<br />
Dearest Sisters in Islam, As-Salaam alaykum<br />
waRahmatullahi waBarakatuhu<br />
It is indeed a great honour to be a Muslim.<br />
May Allah keep us steadfast upon His Deen<br />
till <strong>the</strong> Day <strong>of</strong> Judgement. (Ameen)<br />
The topic today is Polygamy: A Reality Check<br />
for Incoming Wives How Do You Prepare <strong>the</strong><br />
Mindset for Polygamy?<br />
Preparation <strong>of</strong> mindset for Polygamy cut<br />
across gender <strong>and</strong> position. What do I mean<br />
by this?<br />
a. The Husb<strong>and</strong><br />
b. The Existing wife<br />
c. The Incoming wife<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 14
d. The Children<br />
e. The Relations <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> three above<br />
All <strong>the</strong> aforementioned are stakeholders <strong>and</strong><br />
must prepare <strong>the</strong>ir mind in a positive way for<br />
Polygamy to thrive<br />
How should a woman prepare for an<br />
unknown journey that is an Institution <strong>and</strong><br />
has a Constitution?<br />
How?<br />
• The Institution is Marriage University<br />
<strong>of</strong> Life technology The<br />
Minhaj/Constitution is <strong>the</strong> Qur'an<br />
• Duration is Life time except Allah<br />
decides o<strong>the</strong>rwise<br />
• Prerequisites: Sanity, Islam, Physical<br />
maturity, Sexual appetite, Financial<br />
skills <strong>and</strong> capacity<br />
• Cut-Off Point: 50<br />
• Lecturers: But Who are your teachers?<br />
Who should be your teachers?<br />
Recall my Gr<strong>and</strong>-Aunt telling us during my<br />
first nikkah night "Baba Tailor (her pet name<br />
for me) be mindful <strong>of</strong> unpaid teachers with<br />
unsolicited advises"<br />
For every eligible Muslim, it is important to<br />
create time to ask yourself;<br />
• What do I want in a marriage?<br />
• What likely qualities do I desire in my<br />
would-be partner?<br />
• Which <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se qualities can I<br />
compromise on?<br />
• Which <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se qualities are NO bending<br />
areas for me?<br />
• As a single sister or a single again, sit<br />
yourself down before proposals start<br />
coming your way.<br />
• Write down 10things/qualities that you<br />
would like in your would-be partner<br />
• Rearrange it from most important to<br />
least important<br />
• Let <strong>the</strong> Qur'an <strong>and</strong> Sunnah be your guide<br />
in <strong>the</strong> qualities <strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong> rearrangement<br />
• Start praying for Allah's assistance <strong>and</strong> a<br />
mind to accept <strong>and</strong> be contented with<br />
Allah's choice.<br />
• If a suitor has 7 or 8 <strong>of</strong> your listed items<br />
<strong>and</strong> your heart is at ease after istikharah<br />
<strong>and</strong> due diligence, <strong>the</strong>n baibe, go for it<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 15
Again, to our question: How do you prepare?<br />
1. It is Allah's injunction. If it is harmful,<br />
Allah will not put it forward for humanity.<br />
Let your mind be clear about this<br />
2. Educate yourself in a positive way, aiming<br />
solely to move closer to Allah <strong>and</strong> better<br />
underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Deen<br />
3. Let everyone <strong>of</strong> us put ourselves in <strong>the</strong><br />
shoe <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Aged single, divorcee <strong>and</strong><br />
widows<br />
9. Let everyone <strong>of</strong> us put ourselves in <strong>the</strong><br />
shoe <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Aged single, divorcee <strong>and</strong><br />
widows<br />
10. Have it at <strong>the</strong> front <strong>of</strong> your mind that<br />
Nothing is yours <strong>and</strong> nothing will ever be.<br />
11. Every single thing is a trust, a privilege <strong>and</strong><br />
will be accounted for - status, spouse,<br />
children etc<br />
4. Have it at <strong>the</strong> front <strong>of</strong> your mind that<br />
Nothing is yours <strong>and</strong> nothing will ever be.<br />
5. Every single thing is a trust, a privilege <strong>and</strong><br />
will be accounted for - status, spouse,<br />
children etc<br />
6. Life is a stage, life is short, status changes<br />
12. Life is a stage, life is short, status changes<br />
13. Love your love, love liLlahi waRosul, love<br />
Jannah above Duniyah, love <strong>the</strong> Lord <strong>of</strong><br />
love Allah not <strong>the</strong> objects that He gift you<br />
14. Accept <strong>and</strong> be contented with Allah that<br />
Allah may marry you on ano<strong>the</strong>r <strong>of</strong> His gift<br />
(a sister) or marry His gift (Sister) on you<br />
7. It is Allah's injunction. If it is harmful,<br />
Allah will not put it forward for humanity.<br />
Let your mind be clear about this<br />
8. Educate yourself in a positive way, aiming<br />
solely to move closer to Allah <strong>and</strong> better<br />
underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Deen<br />
15. Prayer <strong>and</strong> patience: Pray for guidance,<br />
patience <strong>and</strong> ease, pray for justice <strong>and</strong><br />
risq. Practice self restraint, give <strong>and</strong> take<br />
with siblings, husb<strong>and</strong>, children <strong>and</strong><br />
neighbours.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 16
Make self restraint your second nature<br />
16. Finally put your trust in Allah if it is meant<br />
for you, nobody can will it away from you<br />
<strong>and</strong> if it is not your call nobody can force<br />
it on you<br />
What to Include in your Baggage as a<br />
Muslimah?<br />
• Aqeedatus-Salim Sound faith in Allah<br />
• An insatiable love for knowledge,<br />
acquire as much as possible from<br />
au<strong>the</strong>ntic sources using Qur'an as <strong>the</strong><br />
baseline<br />
• Amala solihan consistent concealed<br />
<strong>and</strong> open good deeds<br />
• Contentment<br />
• Patience<br />
• Humility<br />
• Tolerance<br />
• Perseverance<br />
• Objectivity <strong>and</strong> open mindedness<br />
• Self respect<br />
• Protection <strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>rs halal interest<br />
• Smile <strong>and</strong> Silence<br />
Not all Peaches <strong>and</strong> Creams, Not all Pains<br />
<strong>and</strong> Miseries<br />
We have seen our mo<strong>the</strong>rs who underst<strong>and</strong><br />
very little <strong>of</strong> Islam but who had successful<br />
polygamy<br />
And we have seen Muslimahs "epitome <strong>of</strong><br />
Islam so to speak" who made <strong>the</strong>ir families<br />
<strong>and</strong> people around <strong>the</strong>m abhor<br />
polygamy, what will your story be? What will<br />
history present about you when you are<br />
gone? Every institution has its fall outs.<br />
• First, we are sisters in humanity <strong>the</strong>n we<br />
are sisters in faith before we became cowives<br />
• Some husb<strong>and</strong>s are doing it wrongly,<br />
perching sisters against each o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
• Some co-wives are getting it wrong<br />
manipulating <strong>the</strong> husb<strong>and</strong> to injustice <strong>and</strong><br />
unfairness<br />
• Some sisters will ra<strong>the</strong>r be enemies <strong>and</strong><br />
will advocate <strong>the</strong> same for anyone that<br />
care to listen<br />
• Some are willing to be friends but are<br />
been rebuffed<br />
• Some polygamy has been pains all<br />
through<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 17
• Some polygamy has been gains with<br />
normal human factors<br />
• Some are nei<strong>the</strong>r here nor <strong>the</strong>re<br />
• Can <strong>the</strong>se be better??<br />
• Who should take <strong>the</strong> lead??<br />
• Take a step back<br />
• Ask yourself why are we inflicting so much<br />
pain on each o<strong>the</strong>r?<br />
• Is it because <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Dirham or <strong>the</strong> Dick or<br />
<strong>the</strong> Dickson???<br />
• Which <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se three were you born<br />
with??<br />
• Which <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se three will follow you to<br />
<strong>the</strong> grave??<br />
• Be <strong>the</strong> first to extend <strong>the</strong> h<strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
fellowship<br />
• Protect <strong>the</strong> knot <strong>of</strong> kinship from your end<br />
• Which <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se three will assist you with<br />
your accountability???<br />
Step back<br />
Breath,<br />
Exhale <strong>the</strong> pain<br />
Embrace <strong>the</strong> gain<br />
• Protect your Jannah account<br />
• Patience is never ever too much<br />
• Love moderately <strong>and</strong> avoid clinging<br />
desperately, only Allah is worth clinging<br />
to.<br />
• Don't make your sister cry out <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
emotional, physical or psychological<br />
abuse that you are meting out to her. Be<br />
<strong>the</strong> cause <strong>of</strong> her smile.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 18
• Wives gang up against husb<strong>and</strong>, wife<br />
gang up with children to disrespect<br />
husb<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> co-wife. Even husb<strong>and</strong><br />
gang up with a wife against ano<strong>the</strong>r<br />
wife. Don't be a party to negative<br />
caucuses in your marital homes.<br />
• Keep children away from your<br />
wrangling. The misdeed you taught<br />
<strong>the</strong>m will haunt you in later years.<br />
• Don't ruin <strong>the</strong>ir kinship before it even<br />
commences.<br />
• Let your conscience be clear that you<br />
have tried<br />
• You have <strong>the</strong> privilege to choose who<br />
your kith (friends) are, however Allah<br />
chose your Kin for you. Your co-wife is<br />
your Kin by virtue <strong>of</strong> marriage but may<br />
not necessarily be your kith. Let not<br />
<strong>the</strong> knot <strong>of</strong> kinship loose from your<br />
own end.<br />
• When dispute ensue <strong>and</strong> it definitely<br />
will,<br />
• Walk WIN - WIN<br />
• Talk <strong>and</strong> walk empathy not only for<br />
yourself but for your co-wife <strong>and</strong><br />
hubby<br />
What Polygamy is not?<br />
• It is not a replacement <strong>the</strong>ory in<br />
practice<br />
• It is not rivalry<br />
• It is not a competition<br />
• It is not <strong>the</strong> breaking <strong>of</strong> existing<br />
marriage or family ties<br />
• It is not a call for war<br />
• It is not slavery<br />
• It is not status symbol<br />
• It is not a love triangle<br />
• It is not <strong>the</strong> loss <strong>of</strong> love, trust or space<br />
in his heart<br />
• It is not coercion (o le si le, Iyawo sara -<br />
"because nobody wants to marry her",<br />
" she is a gift")<br />
• It is not a favour because marriage for<br />
every marriageable sister is a right<br />
• It is not a signal <strong>of</strong><br />
defectiveness/deficiency<br />
• Don't be insecure<br />
• Don't be intimidated or intimidating<br />
• Don't be arrogant<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 19
• Chose Sanity<br />
• Be yourself, don't be uptight<br />
• Remember some chose polygamy<br />
• Polygamy has chosen some<br />
• Some were "forced" into polygamy<br />
The moment you are in it, relate with<br />
compassion "Ma la yarham la yurham -<br />
whoever does not show mercy, will not be<br />
shown mercy<br />
Reality <strong>of</strong> our time is that some <strong>of</strong> us will<br />
live <strong>the</strong> Polygamy life. For <strong>the</strong> single again<br />
sisters, reality <strong>and</strong> researches has shown<br />
that most single male including single<br />
again male are disinclined <strong>and</strong> discouraged<br />
to marry <strong>the</strong> single again sisters (widows<br />
<strong>and</strong> divorced sisters)<br />
Having said this much, I now come back to<br />
our definition <strong>of</strong> Polygamy albeit <strong>Polygyny</strong><br />
Polygamy is a humble call by Allah to obey<br />
His injunction <strong>of</strong> sharing <strong>the</strong> time, love <strong>and</strong><br />
o<strong>the</strong>r resources <strong>of</strong> a male slave <strong>of</strong> Allah by<br />
His female servants in order to sanitise <strong>the</strong><br />
society <strong>of</strong> self-inflicted social ills. I st<strong>and</strong> to<br />
be contested <strong>and</strong> corrected<br />
How to Change <strong>the</strong> Narrative <strong>of</strong> Polygamy<br />
as an Incoming Wife<br />
• Make sure you are introduced prior to<br />
nikkah day. Calm your fear, she won't<br />
eat you up; request that it should be<br />
h<strong>and</strong>led by mature minded conscious<br />
Muslims that way possibility <strong>of</strong> fracas is<br />
minimised<br />
What <strong>the</strong>n do we as a society prefer?<br />
• Prostitution<br />
• Artificial Celibacy<br />
• Sodomy<br />
• (Allah's wise option) Polygamy??<br />
• for our single again sisters, what do we<br />
want??<br />
• Since you have little choice <strong>of</strong> who your<br />
Kin is <strong>and</strong> you do not want to cut <strong>the</strong><br />
knot/tie <strong>of</strong> kinship, if you aim at<br />
friendship <strong>and</strong> it is not working out <strong>the</strong>n<br />
aim at neighbourliness if that too does<br />
not work out <strong>the</strong>n<br />
• Choose your battlefield - Jannah<br />
(Paradise) or Jahanam (Hellfire). This<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 20
will give you clear vision <strong>of</strong> what your<br />
battles should be.<br />
• Battles that will lead to hell fire, you<br />
down tool <strong>and</strong> turn back but battle that<br />
will lead to Paradise, you kit up <strong>and</strong><br />
participate<br />
Battles that leads to sanity <strong>and</strong> serenity in<br />
<strong>the</strong> marriage, you join arms while battle<br />
that leads to insanity, senility you<br />
• ran away from. As <strong>of</strong>ten as possible<br />
sheath your sword <strong>and</strong> dialogue<br />
• Minimise <strong>the</strong> incidence <strong>of</strong> Ego trip:<br />
i. Age<br />
ii. Beauty<br />
iii. Job status<br />
iv. Family status<br />
v. Social status<br />
vi. Articulation<br />
vii. Wealth<br />
viii. Fertility etc<br />
None <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> above are by your cheer<br />
hardwork.<br />
They are privileges <strong>and</strong> trust <strong>and</strong> should<br />
not be flaunted!!<br />
• Be patience.<br />
• Talk well <strong>of</strong> you co-wife even if she is<br />
nasty. Protect her image <strong>and</strong> her<br />
marriage from your own end<br />
• Seek clarification don't make<br />
assumptions<br />
• Don't raise your expectations.<br />
• Don't use experience <strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>rs to build<br />
your home<br />
• Be accommodating but don't encourage<br />
abuse<br />
• Avoid negative teachers, naysayers,<br />
disgruntled mentors.<br />
• Peach your tent with Allah, His Rosul,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Companions<br />
• Make sure your end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> marriage is<br />
solid but, in <strong>the</strong> process, do not<br />
undermine <strong>the</strong> marriage <strong>of</strong> your co-wife<br />
• In protecting your right, do not usurp<br />
her right.<br />
• Be at peace with <strong>and</strong> protect <strong>the</strong><br />
interest <strong>of</strong><br />
- Yourself<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 21
- Husb<strong>and</strong><br />
- Co-wife<br />
- Children<br />
- Relations<br />
From my end, polygamy will work in-sha-<br />
Allah<br />
What about you?<br />
Inna adhi tadhkirah faman shaa a tahadha<br />
ila Robbihi sebila<br />
May Allah forgive you <strong>and</strong> I for wrong<br />
presentation <strong>and</strong> interpretation ameen<br />
Subhanna Robbika Robbil izati amma<br />
yasifun wasalamun alal-mursalim<br />
walhamdulillahi Rabbil Al-Ameen<br />
To all single by nature (widows <strong>and</strong><br />
divorcees) on board, I say hold on tightly<br />
to Allah, you will smile again soon <strong>and</strong> it<br />
will be from your heart in-sha-Allah<br />
https://movingon.com.ng<br />
www.facebook.com/MyWLife<br />
https://t.me/movingon<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 22
َ<br />
ُ<br />
ّ<br />
ِ<br />
THE TRUTH ABOUT CONSCIOUS INCOMING<br />
WIVES BY SISTER QUDRAH BINT ZA'AFARAN<br />
ADELASE<br />
A talk delivered on <strong>Dispelling</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Fear</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>Myth</strong>s <strong>of</strong> <strong>Polygyny</strong>......... And Realities<br />
Telegram platform on 12th July, 2018<br />
ال مْ دَ ْحَ<br />
نَح ْ م َ د ُ هُ<br />
و َ نَسْ تَعِ ينُهُ<br />
ونستغفره ونعوذ باهلل من<br />
إِن لِلِ<br />
ر شور أنفسنا ومن سيئات أعمالنا م ْ يَه دِ ِه الِل فَ ل مُ ضِ ل<br />
َ َهُ َنْ َهَ<br />
َهُ<br />
َش أ إِل إِل الِل و<br />
ل و<br />
ي ُضْ لِ لْ فَ ل َ ه ادِ يَ<br />
ل َ و مَ نْ<br />
َهُ<br />
َن مُ ح عَ ب ُ ْد هُ َ و َ ر سُ ولُهُ<br />
ل َ وأ<br />
شرَ<br />
َ ْ ح َ د هُ<br />
ُ ّ<br />
ُ ّ<br />
َ ً مدا<br />
َ<br />
ل<br />
َ نْ<br />
َ أ ْ َ هد<br />
َ<br />
ِيك<br />
As-Salaam alaykum waRahmatullahi<br />
waBarakatuhu<br />
We seek Allah's guidance in all our<br />
endeavors<br />
َ<br />
ل<br />
Pls mark <strong>the</strong> word Willingly<br />
And mark <strong>the</strong> word Married<br />
And mark <strong>the</strong> word Due diligence<br />
Willingly implies that she knows to some<br />
minimal extent what she is getting into<br />
Married implies she knows he is a package<br />
with a baggage. She is willing to live with<br />
that baggage to <strong>the</strong> best <strong>of</strong> her human<br />
capacity Allah being on her side<br />
Due Diligence implies you have made<br />
findings at least a little bit about <strong>the</strong> private<br />
him not <strong>the</strong> minbar or public figure him.<br />
Our topic this today<br />
The Truth about Conscious Incoming Wives<br />
Who is <strong>the</strong> Incoming Wife?<br />
Of course, this should be after a proper<br />
istikharah<br />
The lady who has willingly accepted <strong>the</strong><br />
proposal <strong>of</strong> a married gentleman with <strong>the</strong><br />
consent <strong>of</strong> her wali.<br />
Hopefully herself <strong>and</strong> her Wali or anyone<br />
she so appointed (deem fit) would have<br />
done due diligence on characters <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
gentleman<br />
Istikharah <strong>and</strong> prayer should be a part <strong>of</strong> her<br />
life <strong>the</strong> moment she feels she is ready for<br />
marriage life, well ahead <strong>of</strong> any proposal.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 23
Then when proposal comes she repeats her<br />
istikharah with ikhlas<br />
It will be nice <strong>and</strong> setting <strong>the</strong> ground for<br />
positive relationship if she is introduced<br />
formerly to <strong>the</strong> Existing wife(s) <strong>and</strong> children<br />
prior to nikkah<br />
Sometimes, out <strong>of</strong> fear <strong>of</strong> unknown<br />
What will her (existing wife or children)<br />
reaction be?<br />
• Or pretext that she is my good friend<br />
• We tend to run from <strong>the</strong> Introduction.<br />
• Pls be introduced<br />
• She won't eat you up<br />
• Let it be h<strong>and</strong>led by matured islamically<br />
conscious <strong>and</strong> experienced adults<br />
It will take <strong>the</strong> grace <strong>of</strong> Allah <strong>and</strong> maturity on<br />
<strong>the</strong> part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> man or both <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m not to<br />
compare her with <strong>the</strong> existing wife.<br />
Special Appeal<br />
For Single Again Sisters<br />
There is no basis for comparing your ex/late<br />
with your new husb<strong>and</strong><br />
• Why?<br />
• You married your ex as a young adult<br />
• Full <strong>of</strong> energy,<br />
• Both <strong>of</strong> you were naive/inexperience<br />
• Lots <strong>of</strong> expectations<br />
• You had ample opportunity to<br />
experiment<br />
Her Realities<br />
1. The existing wife(s) <strong>and</strong>/or children may<br />
not accept her<br />
2. She needs to build her marriage with x-<br />
factors<br />
Now you are experienced, your exuberance<br />
has mellowed <strong>and</strong> your age or health may<br />
not be as before. Same goes for your new<br />
husb<strong>and</strong>. Aside all <strong>the</strong>se, <strong>the</strong> two men are<br />
different - upbringing, maturity, exposure,<br />
source <strong>of</strong> livelihood, sense <strong>of</strong> responsibilities<br />
etc.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 24
There is also no reason for him to compare<br />
you with <strong>the</strong> wife at home. You are two<br />
separate individuals<br />
with different skill sets, aspirations etc<br />
Hence be nice to yourself<br />
Her Realities<br />
3. No period <strong>of</strong> exclusivity<br />
4. She will have to build trust with her<br />
husb<strong>and</strong>, co-wife <strong>and</strong> relations on 3sides<br />
5. Anxiety might set in if living in different<br />
States or countries. <strong>Fear</strong> <strong>of</strong> safe trip, time<br />
allocation etc<br />
6. May have to live in <strong>the</strong> shadow <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> cowife,<br />
if husb<strong>and</strong> does not do it right<br />
7. May foot her own bill if she allows herself<br />
to be a victim <strong>of</strong> innocence/"pentagon"<br />
8. She may have to redefine friendship <strong>and</strong><br />
affiliates yet family may choose to st<strong>and</strong><br />
as foes<br />
9. Some are victimize/maltreated by existing<br />
wife<br />
Her Struggles <strong>and</strong> Pains<br />
• Building a viable marital relationship with<br />
her husb<strong>and</strong><br />
• A desire for a cordial relationship with<br />
co-wife <strong>and</strong> children.<br />
• She yearns for acceptance from co-wife,<br />
children, relations even friends<br />
• It tears at her heart if rebuffed by<br />
existing wife or disrespected by<br />
children or any o<strong>the</strong>r family member<br />
It tears her heart if her children lead<br />
to her being viewed as an<br />
incompetent mo<strong>the</strong>r<br />
• It tears her heart if she is expected to be<br />
<strong>the</strong> one to mellow even in <strong>the</strong> face <strong>of</strong><br />
oppression all in <strong>the</strong> name <strong>of</strong> "respect<br />
your senior", as a result sane incoming<br />
wife add truckloads <strong>of</strong> patience to her<br />
luggage<br />
• She is afraid that any negative reaction<br />
might undermine <strong>the</strong> marriage <strong>of</strong> her cowife<br />
or hers hence patience is her<br />
second name<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 25
• But <strong>the</strong>n patience has its reward<br />
Is it this?<br />
A typical pain for a Single Again<br />
Is it that??<br />
Is withdrawal <strong>of</strong> proposal even before she<br />
respond Yes or No<br />
My sister, be kind to yourself. He was not<br />
destined to marry you<br />
• OMG!!! Does that hurt!???<br />
Ano<strong>the</strong>r pain<br />
• It hurts like ...........<br />
• It is interpreted as Rejection<br />
You call a single sister (because she looks like<br />
a prospect) <strong>and</strong> ask her to stay clear <strong>of</strong> your<br />
husb<strong>and</strong> or start forming attitude because<br />
she is a friend <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> family or Mr. Chairman.<br />
She questioned herself, will I be rude to a<br />
Of course, scholars opined that she should<br />
not expect any explanation for <strong>the</strong><br />
withdrawal. But human mind<br />
man that has not trespass any limit??<br />
My sister, chill!!<br />
will play a thous<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> one tricks on her<br />
Is it her?<br />
Is it <strong>the</strong> wife at home<br />
If you chase <strong>the</strong>m apart for a thous<strong>and</strong> years<br />
if <strong>the</strong>y are meant to marry each o<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y<br />
will meet at <strong>the</strong> right junction <strong>and</strong> marry.<br />
Sisi, be calm. She is just been human <strong>and</strong><br />
"protecting" her territory that should not<br />
cause enmity or fracas. If he is your<br />
destination, you will get <strong>the</strong>re<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 26
The Need for <strong>the</strong> Existing Wife <strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Society to Underst<strong>and</strong> Her<br />
Can first wife really underst<strong>and</strong>??<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> society not confused??<br />
You complain that sex is painful <strong>and</strong> try to<br />
avoid it as much as is possible, what are<br />
your alternatives??<br />
What are his alternatives??<br />
• Incoming Wife seeks<br />
• Legitimacy,<br />
Again I ask<br />
✓ Can first wife really underst<strong>and</strong>??<br />
✓ Is <strong>the</strong> society not confused??<br />
✓ Talking from <strong>the</strong> st<strong>and</strong> <strong>of</strong><br />
Widow/Divorced<br />
✓ You hug her <strong>and</strong> advise her to<br />
remarry but everyone's husb<strong>and</strong> is<br />
"busy", can she marry herself??<br />
From <strong>the</strong> point <strong>of</strong> a working woman,<br />
We want <strong>the</strong> men to stay away from<br />
promiscuity but it is <strong>of</strong>fer to him free <strong>of</strong><br />
charge (FOC), provocative dresses, You <strong>and</strong> I<br />
know that "lower your gaze" can be........<br />
What should he do??<br />
• Listening ears,<br />
• Leaning shoulder,<br />
• Companionship,<br />
• A crown for her head <strong>and</strong><br />
• Respect from men <strong>and</strong> mankind in<br />
general etc. Note men don't respect<br />
marriageable ladies who are single;<br />
this include our so call bro<strong>the</strong>rs too!!<br />
• Importantly, she wants obedience to<br />
Allah.<br />
• Some foot <strong>the</strong>ir own bills<br />
• Some pull <strong>the</strong> husb<strong>and</strong> out <strong>of</strong> murky<br />
waters<br />
• Some help him to be more patient <strong>and</strong><br />
accommodating<br />
• Some encourage him to mend his ways<br />
From a woman to a woman,<br />
<strong>and</strong> be closer to his Lord<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 27
Home Breakers!!!, NO<br />
The question is "was your marriage solid<br />
before her arrival onto <strong>the</strong> picture?"<br />
If Yes. I confidently put it to you that she<br />
cannot rival what you have achieve ei<strong>the</strong>r<br />
negative or positive.<br />
• You introduced him to marriage<br />
• You introduced him to his first legal<br />
intimacy<br />
• You introduced him to responsibility<br />
• You introduced him to fa<strong>the</strong>rhood<br />
(optional).<br />
enough <strong>of</strong> tears that just won't stop, enough <strong>of</strong><br />
thinking alone, talking to herself), give her<br />
children <strong>the</strong> opportunity to a male voice <strong>and</strong>/or<br />
a fa<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
Don't be scared <strong>of</strong> her, she is just a woman like<br />
you seeking a safe legitimate h<strong>and</strong> to hold<br />
And if she proves to be troublesome<br />
1. Find out what are <strong>the</strong> issues. She may have<br />
been battered <strong>and</strong> don't know how to be better<br />
2. If <strong>the</strong> ground is smooth <strong>and</strong> you are not her<br />
grouse, help her out or look for someone to<br />
3. Give her time to adjust to her new life<br />
This is not a competition. She is just starting out<br />
with him, she will have to carve her niche. Don't<br />
feel insecure <strong>and</strong> don't make her task difficult<br />
4. If all positive efforts fail, Let us all join h<strong>and</strong> to<br />
put her on track with love.<br />
We are sisters, we are always at <strong>the</strong> receiving<br />
If No, Please work on your marriage<br />
end, we can't afford to wunjure each o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
Gold Diggers, ArRazaq will enrich man at His own<br />
time. Anything acquire falsely won't last.<br />
The Lord <strong>of</strong> recompense will reward her if her<br />
intent are all negative, just h<strong>and</strong> her over to Him<br />
Let's hold h<strong>and</strong>s, bear <strong>the</strong> scratching <strong>and</strong> propel<br />
each o<strong>the</strong>r to build a peaceful home here on<br />
earth <strong>and</strong> hopefully in Jannah<br />
Give her a chance to live a sane lively life<br />
Adapted<br />
(enough <strong>of</strong> cuddling pillows on cold nights,<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 28
َّ<br />
ن ن َ<br />
َ<br />
Your resolution must not falter, No argument<br />
must lead you astray...........<strong>the</strong> prosperity <strong>of</strong><br />
one is <strong>the</strong> prosperity <strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r"<br />
George Orwell (Animal Farm)<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>r? But you abhor it; <strong>and</strong> be careful <strong>of</strong><br />
(your duty to) Allah, surely Allah is Oft-returning<br />
(to mercy), Merciful.<br />
(English – Shakir) via iQuran<br />
Surah Al-Hujraat, Verse 9:<br />
ْن ُ َه مَ ا إِ فَ ن بَغَ تْ<br />
َي<br />
ُوا ف ْ َص لِ ُ حوا ب<br />
َل<br />
َت<br />
ْ نَ نِي اق<br />
َانِ مِ ن ْمُ ؤ مِ<br />
َ وإِن ط<br />
َف ءَ إِ َل ْ رِ ِ اَّلل إِ فَ ن<br />
ي ِ ي تَبْغ حَ تَى ٰ ت ِ ي<br />
إِ حْ د ُ مَ ا ع اْل رَ ْ ُخْ ٰ ى فَ قَ اتِلُوا ِ الَّتَ<br />
ُحِ بُّ<br />
ي<br />
ْن ُ َه مَ ا بِال َ ْع ْ د لِ و ْ َق سِ ُ طوا إِ نى<br />
َي<br />
َص ُ وا ب<br />
َ ف اءَ تْ فَ أ<br />
ي<br />
نَ<br />
ْمُ قْ سِ طِ<br />
ال<br />
ٰ أَم<br />
َ َّ<br />
اَّلل<br />
َ أ<br />
َ أ<br />
َ ال ْ ت<br />
َ َل<br />
ْ لِح<br />
َ َ ائِفت<br />
َ اه<br />
Mr. Chairman, <strong>the</strong> Mutual friend wants peace<br />
even <strong>the</strong> most stubborn <strong>and</strong> egocentric among<br />
<strong>the</strong>m want peace<br />
Our children need smiling parents, serene home,<br />
it is doable, let's give <strong>the</strong>m one<br />
And if two parties <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> believers quarrel, make<br />
peace between <strong>the</strong>m; but if one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m acts<br />
wrongfully towards <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r, fight that which<br />
acts wrongfully until it returns to Allah's<br />
comm<strong>and</strong>; <strong>the</strong>n if it returns, make peace<br />
between <strong>the</strong>m with justice <strong>and</strong> act equitably;<br />
surely Allah loves those who act equitably.<br />
(English - Shakir) via iQuran<br />
Incoming wife want peace <strong>of</strong> mind, she does not<br />
want to keep walking on eggshell. If you can't be<br />
great friends, please be a tolerant neighbor or<br />
coworker<br />
#AccountabilityIsReal<br />
#CowifeAreKin<br />
Surah Al-Hujraat, Verse 12:<br />
َ<br />
ِّ إِ ى ن ب ْ َع ضَ َّ الظ ِّ ن إِ ث ٌ ْم َ وَل<br />
ُلَ لَحْ مَ<br />
ْك<br />
َأ<br />
َن ي<br />
َ ُ د ُ ك ْ م أ أَح<br />
يَا أ َ َ آمن ْ ت ِّ َ ن َّ الظن<br />
ت َجَ سى<br />
َّذِ ين<br />
َي َ ُّها ال<br />
َ<br />
سُ وا َ وَل<br />
ًا ف<br />
َنِبُوا َ ك ثِيً ا م<br />
ُوا اج<br />
ي َغْ تَب ى ب عْ ضُ كُ م بَعْ ضً ا أَيُحِ بُّ<br />
َّ َ ى ن َّ َ اَّلل ت ى َو ٌ اب ى ر حِ يمٌ<br />
أَخِ يهِ م َ يْت َ َ ك ْ رِهت ُمُ ُ وه َ و ى ات ُ قوا اَّلل إِ<br />
O you who believe! avoid most <strong>of</strong> suspicion, for<br />
surely suspicion in some cases is a sin, <strong>and</strong> do<br />
not spy nor let some <strong>of</strong> you backbite o<strong>the</strong>rs.<br />
Does one <strong>of</strong> you like to eat <strong>the</strong> flesh <strong>of</strong> his dead<br />
Wa qulli qolla adha astagfrillahi walakum<br />
All error <strong>the</strong>rein are mine. May Allah perfect our<br />
underst<strong>and</strong>ing ameen<br />
We welcome contributions <strong>and</strong> clarifications<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 29
A typical pain for a Single Again<br />
Is withdrawal <strong>of</strong> proposal even before she<br />
respond Yes or No<br />
OMG!!! Does that hurt!???<br />
It hurts like ...........<br />
It is interpreted as Rejection<br />
She questioned herself, will I be rude to a man<br />
that has not trespass any limit??<br />
My sister, chill!!<br />
If you chase <strong>the</strong>m apart for a thous<strong>and</strong> years if<br />
<strong>the</strong>y are meant to marry each o<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y will<br />
meet at <strong>the</strong> right junction <strong>and</strong> marry<br />
Ofcourse scholars opined that she should not<br />
expect any explanation for <strong>the</strong> withdrawal. But<br />
human mind will play a thous<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> one tricks<br />
on her<br />
Is it her?<br />
Is it <strong>the</strong> wife at home<br />
Is it this?<br />
Is it that??<br />
Sisi, be calm. She is just been human <strong>and</strong><br />
"protecting" her territory that should not cause<br />
enmity or fracas. If he is your destination, you<br />
will get <strong>the</strong>re<br />
The first wife need to build her self esteem<br />
Generally, we all need to be humble. As I said on<br />
Monday, every status in life is a privilege<br />
My sister, be kind to yourself. He was not<br />
destined to marry you<br />
Ano<strong>the</strong>r pain<br />
You call a single sister (because she looks like a<br />
prospect) <strong>and</strong> ask her to stay clear <strong>of</strong> your<br />
husb<strong>and</strong> or start forming attitude because she is<br />
a friend <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> family or Mr. Chairman<br />
As for <strong>the</strong> incoming wife, she should be calm <strong>and</strong><br />
humble.<br />
If she is vocal, she will have to tame herself so<br />
that if <strong>the</strong>y live toge<strong>the</strong>r or pass some time<br />
toge<strong>the</strong>r she will have deaf ears to what is not<br />
her business or has not been invited to mediate<br />
in<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 30
If she is working <strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r is mompreneur or<br />
full housewife, don't flaunt <strong>the</strong> fact that you can<br />
afford what you need <strong>and</strong> be doing "giragira"<br />
If she has better underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Deen she<br />
should be humble<br />
Totally = Humility<br />
You know` <strong>the</strong> funny thing; I dey do like person<br />
wey no dey talk ni. Na only me <strong>and</strong> my<br />
husb<strong>and</strong>/my personal person be gisting paddy.<br />
So if you meet me for real, <strong>and</strong> I am all quite pls<br />
don't be surprised ooo<br />
May Allah help us to build a better ummah that<br />
we <strong>and</strong> even <strong>the</strong> companions would be proud <strong>of</strong>f<br />
Alhamdulillahi Rabbil Al-Ameen<br />
It's a pleasure<br />
May Allah guide <strong>the</strong> ummah <strong>of</strong> Muhammad<br />
(SAW) to portray <strong>the</strong> beauty <strong>of</strong> Isalm via best<br />
practices ra<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>ories on <strong>the</strong> minbar ameen<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 31
SINGLE AGAIN, GOING INTO POLYGYNY<br />
BY BARR. ABIMBOLA ABDULRAHAMAN<br />
LEKKI<br />
Salam Alaykum Sisters,<br />
Alhamdulahi Robbil Alamin. I would like to<br />
thank coach for this opportunity <strong>and</strong> I look<br />
forward to sharing <strong>and</strong> learning from all.<br />
Our topic is <strong>the</strong> Single Again, going into<br />
polygyny, apologies to coach, I adapted <strong>the</strong><br />
topic <strong>and</strong> prepared for singles as I noticed<br />
quite a number <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m joined <strong>the</strong> link.<br />
There are 2 choices an individual will make<br />
in life, whose consequences will<br />
reverberate forever; who you marry or<br />
what job you engage in? Some who ask<br />
why? I sure we all know one or two people<br />
whose marital choices continue to haunt<br />
<strong>the</strong>m, particularly in a society like ours,<br />
where staying married is seen like an<br />
achievement. As for <strong>the</strong> jobs you take, <strong>and</strong><br />
what you do with it <strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong> opportunities<br />
that come, is tied to your livelihood.<br />
Many women find <strong>the</strong>mselves single again<br />
due to death, divorce, incapacitation,<br />
neglect, refusal to act or ab<strong>and</strong>onment by<br />
a spouse. Due to <strong>the</strong> patrilineal nature <strong>of</strong><br />
our society, <strong>the</strong>se women face social<br />
stigma, lack <strong>of</strong> support, lack <strong>of</strong> resources,<br />
<strong>of</strong>ten raising children with less finance<br />
(some are wealthy)<br />
Because society disparages <strong>the</strong>m, blames<br />
<strong>the</strong>m for <strong>the</strong> failure <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir marriage <strong>and</strong><br />
are <strong>of</strong>ten referred to as second rate,<br />
second h<strong>and</strong>, over <strong>the</strong> hill, after four etc.<br />
Because <strong>of</strong> emotional or sexual pressure<br />
(Bodi no be wood) many <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m will begin<br />
new relationships, in <strong>the</strong> hopes that it<br />
would lead to marriage over grateful <strong>and</strong><br />
disadvantaged<br />
Such relationship <strong>of</strong> undue influence<br />
where one party has an obvious advantage<br />
over <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r never bodes well thus our<br />
single <strong>and</strong> single again sisters, need to ask<br />
<strong>the</strong> pertinent question where do I st<strong>and</strong>?<br />
The most important attribute <strong>of</strong> a single/<br />
single again is self- love, self- worth.<br />
Thinking highly <strong>of</strong> yourself, even when<br />
o<strong>the</strong>rs do not, or circumstances dictate<br />
o<strong>the</strong>rwise.<br />
<strong>Polygyny</strong> itself is a challenge, how do you<br />
navigate? Our st<strong>and</strong>ard remains<br />
Muhammad Rasullahi, in his words, action<br />
<strong>and</strong> Deen. He married both single <strong>and</strong><br />
single again <strong>and</strong> managed to give every<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 32
woman her due. Going into polygyny, trust<br />
in Allah’s decree; discuss everything,<br />
meeting existing wife/wives,<br />
accommodation, maintenance, medicals.<br />
Am going to digress? People ask? 'Am<br />
single again, surely I can marry a single<br />
man or widower? Why chose polygyny<br />
with its obvious baggage? If that's what<br />
you want, <strong>the</strong>n strive for it. The inherent<br />
challenges are his family won't want you,<br />
your children will have to adapt to his<br />
family dynamics, third party side talks his<br />
inexperience (single man) versus your<br />
experience (previously married) etc.<br />
But <strong>the</strong>n you need to trust in Allah <strong>and</strong><br />
listen to your intuition. That sixth sense<br />
that tells you when something is wrong<br />
<strong>and</strong> it turns out to be so.<br />
For majority <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> single again that would<br />
end up polygynous, you need a wali (not<br />
your parents) preferably a male with eyes<br />
everywhere, that can seek what you are<br />
not seeing <strong>and</strong> ask <strong>the</strong> hard hitting<br />
questions.<br />
Where your previous relationship ended<br />
badly, probably abusive <strong>and</strong> you ended up<br />
hurt, please use NLP tools <strong>and</strong> emotional<br />
intelligence to deal with this or speak to a<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>essional counselor, you need to rid<br />
yourself <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> negatives <strong>and</strong> allow <strong>the</strong><br />
positive s to take root. For our singles, we<br />
want a spouse with a long list <strong>of</strong> this <strong>and</strong><br />
that? How many <strong>of</strong> those things do we<br />
possess? Also, we need to be careful <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
perils <strong>of</strong> social media An intending spouse<br />
goes through your pr<strong>of</strong>ile <strong>and</strong> sees lewd<br />
pictures or bad language, might be a joke,<br />
but <strong>the</strong>y leave a lasting impression. I will<br />
stop here. I pray Allah forgives me <strong>of</strong> my<br />
shortcomings. I pray <strong>the</strong> talk has been<br />
beneficial.<br />
I recommend <strong>the</strong> following books 'why<br />
Muslim marriages fail? By Dr. Suzy Ismail, '<br />
Before you say I do? By T. D. Jakes <strong>and</strong> ' His<br />
needs <strong>and</strong> Her Needs' cannot recall <strong>the</strong><br />
author but all books are online. Thank you<br />
for listening. I will take questions if any<br />
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS<br />
1. Istikhara, ask around <strong>and</strong> let him know<br />
you are asking. Chances are if he is not<br />
serious, he won't want you to know his<br />
past. Married ones get a trusted male to<br />
do <strong>the</strong> digging.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 33
2. It can be very emotional when it feels<br />
like you are getting to know someone <strong>and</strong><br />
later discover that <strong>the</strong>y are not totally<br />
ready to go all <strong>the</strong> way? Yes, it can, but<br />
better to find out early than when you are<br />
in deep.<br />
3. My copies are hard copies. However,<br />
Google can help with bookshops that stock<br />
in Lagos <strong>and</strong> Abuja.<br />
4. In addition to those beautiful points by<br />
barrister..... Single Again sister should also<br />
read on blended family (having children<br />
from previous marriage.... How to blend<br />
with new family).... So as to familiarize<br />
<strong>the</strong>mselves with challenges that<br />
accompany that too, you can Google...<br />
Blended family in Islam, you may find<br />
related articles. You can also read<br />
conventional articles on blended family but<br />
ensure you sieve out any concept that is<br />
not Islamic.<br />
you' you are mad'. You become enraged<br />
<strong>and</strong> truly become mad. Suppose you ask<br />
yourself quietly' am I mad? And you know<br />
you are not, count 1-5 <strong>and</strong> blow him a kiss<br />
or wave at him. Observe <strong>the</strong> look on his<br />
face, confusion <strong>and</strong> bewilderment. You<br />
kept your emotions in check <strong>and</strong> that's <strong>the</strong><br />
goal.<br />
6. On not being ready to start a new<br />
relationship. May Allah ease your fears.<br />
How wonderful to know that you know<br />
you are not ready yet. People<br />
automatically assume you are ready. Take<br />
all <strong>the</strong> time you need. Allah’s timing is<br />
perfect.<br />
5. On becoming emotionally intelligent.<br />
Paid class by coach Tahir coming up.in <strong>the</strong><br />
meantime, read up. It's managing to<br />
control your emotions, so <strong>the</strong>y do not<br />
control you. When driving in Lagos, <strong>the</strong><br />
driver next to you winds down <strong>and</strong> says to<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 34
USING OUR PAINS... TO WORSHIP<br />
ALLAH BY MRS ZULFAH ABOLANLE<br />
ABDURAHAMAN LEKKI<br />
I seek refuge with Allah, <strong>the</strong> All- Hearing,<br />
<strong>the</strong> All- knowing from Shaytan, <strong>the</strong><br />
accursed.<br />
In <strong>the</strong> name <strong>of</strong> Allah, Most Beneficent, <strong>the</strong><br />
Most Merciful.<br />
All praise is due to Allah <strong>the</strong> Lord <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
worlds.<br />
The successful eventuality will be for <strong>the</strong><br />
pious <strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong>re will not be hostility (on <strong>the</strong><br />
day <strong>of</strong> Judgement) except for <strong>the</strong><br />
wrongdoers.<br />
May His peace <strong>and</strong> blessings be upon <strong>the</strong><br />
noblest <strong>of</strong> all <strong>the</strong> messengers,<br />
Muhammad(saw), his household <strong>and</strong><br />
companions in totality.<br />
I've been honoured by my amiable coach<br />
to share with you all ...this topic...Using<br />
our Pains... To worship Allah.<br />
May Allah help us to underst<strong>and</strong>, meditate,<br />
internalize, reflect <strong>and</strong> most importantly<br />
live by it.<br />
I will say... this very topic summarises all<br />
<strong>the</strong> previous topics we have dealt with<br />
because whatever we would have heard,<br />
learnt <strong>and</strong> gained in this platform is for<br />
gaining Allah's pleasure, in <strong>the</strong> realm <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Qur'an <strong>and</strong> Sunnah.<br />
I want to ask us....<br />
Do we believe our home is not this<br />
ephemeral world?<br />
And that we are here to attain our real<br />
home.... Jannah? ....<br />
If it'so as we yearn for it,<br />
<strong>the</strong>n it worths all efforts to focus <strong>and</strong> work<br />
towards attaining it.<br />
I greet all my sisters with <strong>the</strong> best <strong>of</strong><br />
greeting by saying ...<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 35
Assalaam alaikum warahmatullahi<br />
wabarakaatuhu.<br />
grief, distress, misery, hurt, unhappiness<br />
etc.<br />
Glory be to Allah(swt) who has, in infinite<br />
mercy, grace, blessings <strong>and</strong> kindness,<br />
guided us to <strong>the</strong> path <strong>of</strong> Al-Islam, without<br />
which we would not have known Him as<br />
our Lord, identify ourselves or even<br />
appreciate <strong>the</strong> very purpose <strong>of</strong> our<br />
existence. (Qur'an 51:56).,<br />
(Qur'an 51:57-58).<br />
Since our final abode is Jannah.. <strong>and</strong> in<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r to attain it ...Allah has tie down all<br />
our activities to our accountability on <strong>the</strong><br />
day <strong>of</strong> accountability.<br />
May we all be among <strong>the</strong> successful ones.<br />
Do we underst<strong>and</strong> that 'unfavourable<br />
trials' can lead one to pains? Therefore, if<br />
one experiences favourable trials ... <strong>the</strong>se<br />
can lead to <strong>the</strong> opposite.... right?<br />
What are pains:<br />
• Are unfavourable or unpleasant<br />
feelings or emotions<br />
• Are negative emotions/vibes<br />
• Are unsuitable feelings that one<br />
dislikes to experience.<br />
Our life purpose is to worship Allah <strong>and</strong><br />
this extends beyond observing salat, sawn,<br />
zakat, sadakah, which are direct<br />
relationship with our Creator<br />
What is <strong>the</strong> meaning <strong>of</strong> Pain?<br />
Dictionary meanings/ synonymous<br />
Pain is unpleasant sensation, sufferings,<br />
affliction, torture discomfort, sorrow,<br />
Our life purpose also extends to how we<br />
relate to o<strong>the</strong>r creatures... our dealings<br />
with our fellow human beings ei<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y<br />
are close to us like family, friends,<br />
neighbors, colleagues or <strong>the</strong>y are not.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 36
Even to how we deal with animals.<br />
And with <strong>the</strong> little knowledge I have about<br />
Islam.... No one has ever been guaranteed<br />
that one particular act <strong>of</strong> worship will gain<br />
him/her Al-Jannah.<br />
And in o<strong>the</strong>r to attain His Garden.... <strong>the</strong>n it<br />
comes with conditions <strong>of</strong> trials <strong>and</strong> price <strong>of</strong><br />
pains <strong>and</strong> sufferings.<br />
Conditions <strong>and</strong> situations that lead to<br />
pains.<br />
And that brings me to quote Allah's word...<br />
Which says...<br />
"Or do you think that you shall enter <strong>the</strong><br />
Garden without such (trials) as came to<br />
those who passed away before you?<br />
They encountered sufferings <strong>and</strong><br />
adversity, <strong>and</strong> were so shaken in spirit,<br />
that even <strong>the</strong> messenger <strong>and</strong> those <strong>of</strong><br />
faith who were with him cried. ' when will<br />
<strong>the</strong> help <strong>of</strong> Allah come?<br />
❗️Allah's Decree: Allah says in Qur'an 85:16<br />
"I do whatever I like at any time".<br />
It has been in Allah's will <strong>and</strong> plan to put us<br />
in any situation ei<strong>the</strong>r such situation is<br />
favourable or unfavourable to us.<br />
❗️ Allah tests us with our health, wealth,<br />
spouse, children <strong>and</strong> any worldly<br />
possession.<br />
Ah! Verily, <strong>the</strong> help <strong>of</strong> Allah is (always)<br />
near".<br />
Qur'an 2:214.<br />
He tests our faith with those we place so<br />
much reverence, love, faith, value <strong>and</strong><br />
trust in.<br />
So, if our life purpose is to worship Allah...<br />
Then Allah has promised us His beautiful<br />
<strong>and</strong> blissful Garden (which our real home)<br />
We may have done this through <strong>the</strong><br />
following<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 37
⚡️Ill-faith <strong>of</strong> marriage foundation<br />
⚡️Total reliance on your husb<strong>and</strong> or<br />
anybody<br />
⚡️ Your personal sacrifice for <strong>the</strong><br />
maintenance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> home ei<strong>the</strong>r<br />
emotionally, economically for <strong>the</strong> children<br />
<strong>and</strong> him.<br />
⚡️Too much attachment to your husb<strong>and</strong>,<br />
children <strong>and</strong> wealth.<br />
Allah can test us in regard to our marriage<br />
in <strong>the</strong> following ways.<br />
• Death <strong>of</strong> Husb<strong>and</strong> or children.<br />
• Barrenness<br />
⚡️Having high expectations from your<br />
husb<strong>and</strong><br />
⚡️ 'Unconsciously' idolize your love for<br />
your husb<strong>and</strong> or o<strong>the</strong>r things in particular.<br />
• Poverty<br />
• Sickness<br />
• Divorce<br />
• <strong>Polygyny</strong>.......etc.<br />
⚡️Having <strong>the</strong> mind-set that your husb<strong>and</strong><br />
solely belong to you, that you 'own' him<br />
<strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong>refore can't trade him for anything<br />
come what may.<br />
When you are tested this<br />
way.......acceptance is key, your struggling<br />
<strong>and</strong> fighting <strong>the</strong> decree <strong>of</strong> Allah... This<br />
brings you more pains.<br />
⚡️Total dependency on your husb<strong>and</strong>...<br />
'after all he loves me now
Some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se aforementioned cause us<br />
pains during trial period like transition<br />
from monogamy to polygyny, from single<br />
again to re-marry etc<br />
a thing which is good for you, <strong>and</strong> that<br />
you love a thing which is bad for you. But<br />
Allah knoweth, <strong>and</strong> you know not".<br />
Qur'an 2:216<br />
Irrespective <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> position we might be in<br />
our marriages causes <strong>of</strong> our pains <strong>and</strong><br />
sufferings differ<br />
There might be those things, persons <strong>and</strong><br />
conditions you extremely craved for that<br />
are detrimental to your spiritual journey,<br />
growth <strong>and</strong> success...<br />
Allah says... "Certainly, your efforts <strong>and</strong><br />
deeds are diverse."<br />
Qur'an 92:4<br />
Now let's move to <strong>the</strong> next level<br />
Using our pains to attain Allah's pleasure<br />
<strong>and</strong> gain Jannah<br />
1. The spiritual wisdom <strong>and</strong> benefits<br />
behind your pains.<br />
Therefore, Allah who knows <strong>and</strong> loves you<br />
more than you love yourself has place<br />
upon you those things, persons or<br />
conditions that you hate so much... to<br />
bring you back to Him as His beloved<br />
servants.<br />
He has place those 'negatives' factors to<br />
guide you back to Him<br />
Allah says in <strong>the</strong> Holy Qur'an<br />
"It may be that you dislike a thing <strong>and</strong><br />
Allah brings through it a great deal <strong>of</strong><br />
good" Qur'an 4:19<br />
"Fighting is prescribed for you, <strong>and</strong> you<br />
dislike it. But it is possible that you dislike<br />
To awaken you from <strong>the</strong> slumber <strong>of</strong> being<br />
irresponsible to your primary life purpose.<br />
Just a reminder <strong>of</strong> -ibn Sahl.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 39
Which goes thus:<br />
"Trial is a wake-up call from <strong>the</strong> forgetful<br />
one, a means to achieve rewards for <strong>the</strong><br />
patient <strong>and</strong> a reminder <strong>of</strong> blessings for<br />
everyone."<br />
They are blessings in disguises.<br />
submission to Him without complaining<br />
nor compromising.<br />
We said pains are negative feelings, but<br />
<strong>the</strong>y are positive in spiritual realm for your<br />
own advantages, both in this world <strong>and</strong><br />
hereafter.<br />
It's when you sincerely 'accept' ...'submit'<br />
2. Pains as test <strong>of</strong> faith in total submission<br />
to <strong>the</strong> wills, decrees <strong>and</strong> plans <strong>of</strong> Allah.<br />
to Allah for He has power over you....<br />
Or what can an insignificant spec do to <strong>the</strong><br />
Almighty.?? Nothing!!!<br />
Allah says ..."Do people think that <strong>the</strong>y<br />
will be left alone because <strong>the</strong>y say "We<br />
believe', <strong>and</strong> will not be tested. And Allah<br />
will certainly make known(<strong>the</strong> truth <strong>of</strong>)<br />
those who are true <strong>and</strong> certainly make<br />
known (<strong>the</strong> falsehood <strong>of</strong>) those who are<br />
liars". (Qur'an 29:2-3)<br />
You are to submit without complaining<br />
that....:
Which goes thus:<br />
"Trial is a wake-up call from <strong>the</strong> forgetful<br />
one, a means to achieve rewards for <strong>the</strong><br />
patient <strong>and</strong> a reminder <strong>of</strong> blessings for<br />
everyone."<br />
They are blessings in disguises.<br />
submission to Him without complaining<br />
nor compromising.<br />
We said pains are negative feelings, but<br />
<strong>the</strong>y are positive in spiritual realm for your<br />
own advantages, both in this world <strong>and</strong><br />
hereafter.<br />
It's when you sincerely 'accept' ...'submit'<br />
2. Pains as test <strong>of</strong> faith in total submission<br />
to <strong>the</strong> wills, decrees <strong>and</strong> plans <strong>of</strong> Allah.<br />
to Allah for He has power over you....<br />
Or what can an insignificant spec do to <strong>the</strong><br />
Almighty.?? Nothing!!!<br />
Allah says ..."Do people think that <strong>the</strong>y<br />
will be left alone because <strong>the</strong>y say "We<br />
believe', <strong>and</strong> will not be tested. And Allah<br />
will certainly make known(<strong>the</strong> truth <strong>of</strong>)<br />
those who are true <strong>and</strong> certainly make<br />
known (<strong>the</strong> falsehood <strong>of</strong>) those who are<br />
liars". (Qur'an 29:2-3)<br />
You are to submit without complaining<br />
that....:
And could anyone tell us what are <strong>the</strong><br />
spiritual implications <strong>of</strong> this ingratitude<br />
<strong>and</strong> unpleasant actions towards your<br />
Creator.... The Lord <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> World???<br />
My dear sisters, for you to be submissive<br />
to Allah <strong>and</strong> to be among His beloved ones<br />
....you are to stop complaining about your<br />
pains, sufferings, afflictions, sorrow <strong>and</strong><br />
grief to people.<br />
For you to have complained.... so much<br />
about your Lord... to every Tom, Dick <strong>and</strong><br />
Harry.<br />
And, also murmuring, blaming, feeling pity<br />
<strong>and</strong> unworthy <strong>of</strong> yourself...... grumbling<br />
<strong>and</strong> scowling negatively about your<br />
Creator....<br />
The implication is that...<br />
Stop blaming <strong>the</strong> 'object <strong>of</strong> your trials'<br />
(husb<strong>and</strong>s <strong>and</strong> co-wives).<br />
But face <strong>the</strong> 'Creator <strong>of</strong> your trials'.. pray<br />
to Him, beg Him, ....be on your mursalah,<br />
pray vividly to help you ... go on sujjud<br />
<strong>and</strong> pour out your heart... tell Him how<br />
fearful, hurt, pained ... how weak,<br />
helpless, lost, broken <strong>and</strong> vulnerable you<br />
are.!<br />
• Your Lord is not compassionate<br />
towards you.<br />
• That He has disappointed you!<br />
• That He has failed you!<br />
• And He doesn't love you!<br />
In Sha Allah, by His Mercy... He will come<br />
to your rescue.<br />
Because He says "Verily, with every<br />
difficultly, <strong>the</strong>re is relief". (Qur'an 94:6)<br />
• That your Lord is fallible <strong>and</strong> people<br />
should get you ano<strong>the</strong>r God!<br />
3. By not associating any o<strong>the</strong>r gods or<br />
partners with Allah.<br />
Fa auzubillai Minna shaitani Ar-Rajiim<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 42
Ah! Ah! You'll be wondering why should I<br />
say that... After all we are not Kafiruun<br />
nah♀. Abi munafiquun<br />
Kalas! You are associating partners with<br />
Allah ... You know what! ................by<br />
loving your husb<strong>and</strong>s, children, wealth<br />
more than your love for Allah (awj).<br />
Walahi, Allah will not accept your 99.9% <strong>of</strong><br />
love, He will throw it back to you because<br />
He doesn't share His 'worship' with His<br />
creatures.<br />
Here:<br />
Love = worship<br />
You are so devoted to your husb<strong>and</strong>, you<br />
created almost all your time, energy <strong>and</strong><br />
worth to please him.... Please don't get me<br />
wrong... I'm not saying you shouldn't be a<br />
good wife to your husb<strong>and</strong><br />
You can't compromise your love for Him.<br />
He is Self-sufficient, All Powerful.<br />
He is <strong>the</strong> Almighty, The Dominion. He is<br />
free <strong>of</strong> wants <strong>and</strong> praises <strong>of</strong> His creatures.<br />
We all need Him.. He doesn't need us.<br />
Subhanallah wa ta'ala.<br />
But when you love <strong>the</strong> creature more than<br />
<strong>the</strong> Creator... That's a misplacement <strong>of</strong><br />
priority in term <strong>of</strong> your life purpose<br />
To <strong>the</strong> little underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> Islamic<br />
spirituality....<br />
Dear sisters, you should love Allah in<br />
totality <strong>and</strong> from His love, o<strong>the</strong>r loves<br />
spring from.<br />
Your love for your husb<strong>and</strong>s, children,<br />
parents etc.<br />
My Shaykh (htl) ... May Allah bless his soul.<br />
Amin<br />
He said... When your love for Allah is 99.9%<br />
<strong>and</strong> <strong>the</strong> remaining 0.1% for His creatures..<br />
That is <strong>the</strong> reason 'sincerity <strong>of</strong> purpose'<br />
should be your watchword.... Your guiding<br />
light.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 43
Any act <strong>of</strong> worship you do through your<br />
husb<strong>and</strong>, your co-wives etc... must be on<br />
<strong>the</strong> foundation <strong>of</strong> sincerity. That is doing<br />
<strong>the</strong>m for Allah's sake. For <strong>the</strong> sake <strong>of</strong><br />
pleasing Him because <strong>of</strong> your love for Him.<br />
And from loving Allah, to pleasing Him, you<br />
are able to love from <strong>the</strong> premises <strong>of</strong><br />
au<strong>the</strong>nticity not from desperation <strong>and</strong><br />
frustration<br />
Loving for Allah.... Hating for Allah. That is<br />
Islamic love.<br />
Ya Allah help us ...<br />
To love with Your Love, those people You<br />
want us to love, <strong>and</strong> hate with Your Hate<br />
those people You have permitted us to<br />
hate.<br />
And this is a Genuine Love whereby o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
loves spring from.<br />
usurpation, ingratitude <strong>and</strong> so on <strong>and</strong> so<br />
forth.<br />
Positively, pains help you to discover how<br />
fallible you are <strong>and</strong> guide you back to be<br />
better than who you were before.<br />
You would gain Allah's pleasure by<br />
rebuilding your relationships with your<br />
husb<strong>and</strong>, your co-wives, in-laws, family<br />
<strong>and</strong> friends, neighbors etc.<br />
Why are you deceiving yourself to be<br />
spiritually upright when your conscience is<br />
not clear to your fellow human beings???..<br />
When you harbour rancour, hatred <strong>and</strong><br />
animosity against people... your co-wives<br />
for instance just because she has come to<br />
share in that 'thing' that does not worth a<br />
kobo in trading with your Jannah!!<br />
Sisters, we need to reflect upon <strong>the</strong> life<br />
4. Pain: An harbinger <strong>of</strong> your fallibility<br />
Pains are harbinger <strong>of</strong> your weakness,<br />
atrocities, iniquities, indulgences,<br />
prodigality, arrogance, miserliness,<br />
story <strong>of</strong> early muslimah....<br />
They were men... <strong>and</strong> if I called <strong>the</strong>m<br />
men... <strong>the</strong>y were because <strong>the</strong> affairs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 44
hereafter were heavier in <strong>the</strong>ir hearts than<br />
this worlds'.<br />
Ya Allah help us!
• Diminishes self-blame<br />
• Nourishes self-control<br />
• Nourishes self-love <strong>and</strong> self-esteem.<br />
Just trust Him!
• Sabr is fulfilling <strong>the</strong> rights <strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>rs<br />
even when <strong>the</strong>y transgress against<br />
yours.<br />
• Sabr is crying about your heartache in<br />
front <strong>of</strong> Allah <strong>and</strong> no one else.<br />
• Sabr is believing wholeheartedly that<br />
Allah has beautiful things in store for<br />
you.<br />
• Sabr is crawling forward even when<br />
you want to stop.<br />
Like I used to heard this....<br />
If you know how much Allah cares for you,<br />
you will bow down in sujjud from morning<br />
till night <strong>of</strong> everything day <strong>of</strong> your life<br />
praising Him <strong>and</strong> thanking Him for His<br />
mercy over you.<br />
Allah loves you that's <strong>the</strong> reason He is<br />
testing you.... This is enough to be<br />
grateful to Him always.<br />
• Sabr is an active state <strong>of</strong> being, it is not<br />
a <strong>the</strong>ory to simply be discussed <strong>and</strong><br />
forgotten.<br />
May Allah count us among those who are<br />
grateful.<br />
And it is worth it. Every single second <strong>of</strong> it<br />
is so worth it because Allah loves <strong>the</strong><br />
patient.<br />
And it’s worth going through <strong>the</strong> worst <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> worst if it means that it will gain you<br />
Allah’s love.<br />
A beautiful patience
And today... I'm grateful to Allah<br />
As I learnt from a class <strong>of</strong> Emotional<br />
Intelligence<br />
And when I was at 'my lowest'
And whatever <strong>and</strong> wherever I have erred is<br />
from me<br />
May Allah forgive me <strong>of</strong> my shortcomings.<br />
May He make this an Hujjah for us but not<br />
against us.<br />
Ei<strong>the</strong>r pained or pleased,<br />
We seek His Jannah....we seek His<br />
pleasure.<br />
Subhanaka Allahumma wa bi hamdik<br />
Ash'adu an laa ilaha ila nta. A'stagfiruka<br />
wa'atubu ilek.<br />
Subhanaka Robbi i'zati amma yasfuhu<br />
wasalaamu ala limursaleen<br />
walihamdullilah Robbi A'alameen.<br />
WHY WE NEED TO PREPARE OUR<br />
MINDS FOR POLYGAMY BY DOC.<br />
NAFISA ABDUULLAHI ZUFU<br />
Assalam alaikum,<br />
Rabbi sharahli sadri, wa yassirli amri,<br />
wahlul ukdatan min lisani, yafkahu Kaluli.<br />
Amma baad, My dear sisters in Islam,<br />
Coach asked me to give a lecture on why<br />
we need to prepare our minds for<br />
polygamy.<br />
I would have loved it to be an interactive<br />
session but Allah willed o<strong>the</strong>rwise.<br />
Let's say <strong>the</strong> realisation that I was not<br />
ready for polygamy came five months into<br />
my marriage when i had a dream;<br />
In that dream my hubby got a new wife<br />
<strong>and</strong> I had to cook for <strong>the</strong>m for seven days.<br />
Mhmm it was not easy.<br />
I woke up sweating <strong>and</strong> my heart was<br />
beating like I had run for 1000km<br />
I woke up realising my thoughts that I<br />
wouldn't mind polygamy were just<br />
thoughts that in reality I wasn't prepared.<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 49
I know began to see things in a different<br />
light.<br />
At <strong>the</strong> time I thought I understood <strong>the</strong><br />
plight <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> first wife.<br />
I thought <strong>the</strong> first wife was a victim <strong>and</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> man was an oppressor.<br />
I thought my hubby marrying on me was a<br />
betrayal.<br />
I thought I would be a laughing stock<br />
because people would think I was<br />
incapable <strong>of</strong> taking care <strong>of</strong> my husb<strong>and</strong><br />
My greatest fear was that it means he<br />
doesn't love me anymore.<br />
Slowly with different life experiences <strong>and</strong><br />
in different fora I have come to realise I<br />
need to be prepared because:<br />
1. Polygamy can very well be a reality for<br />
me.<br />
2. Polygamy can be a reality for my sister<br />
3. Polygamy can be a reality for my<br />
daughter.<br />
4. Polygamy is a reality for my friends.<br />
5. Polygamy is a reality for my sister in<br />
law.<br />
And because it can be a reality for me <strong>and</strong><br />
my family <strong>and</strong> my friends I need to be<br />
prepared to live it like a Muslimah <strong>and</strong>/or<br />
to give sound advice to my friends <strong>and</strong><br />
family.<br />
Alhamdulillah in my quest to be prepared<br />
I've learnt <strong>and</strong> unlearnt <strong>and</strong> relearn some<br />
pertinent truths:<br />
1. Polygamy will be <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> my<br />
married life as I know it, but ISA it will<br />
be <strong>the</strong> beginning <strong>of</strong> more happy times.<br />
2. Polygamy doesn't mean my hubby is<br />
betraying me.<br />
3. Polygamy doesn't mean I am not up to<br />
<strong>the</strong> task <strong>of</strong> holding my hubby<br />
4. Incoming wify may have her fears <strong>and</strong><br />
concerns <strong>and</strong> being underst<strong>and</strong>ing<br />
<strong>and</strong> patient with her will be a means <strong>of</strong><br />
Allah having mercy on me.<br />
5. Polygamy will not mean he doesn't<br />
love me anymore<br />
Most importantly I have learnt if <strong>the</strong> time<br />
comes I'll still hurt.<br />
I'll still be confused<br />
I'll still be worried but If I hold on to <strong>the</strong><br />
belief that this is a trial from Allah SWT<br />
POSITIVE POLYGNY NETWORK 50
<strong>and</strong> I want to pass it will be easier to pass<br />
through that storm<br />
Sisters this is my journey so far;<br />
It is important to note that preparing for<br />
polygamy doesn't automatically turn your<br />
marriage polygamous but it does help u<br />
know how to help o<strong>the</strong>rs <strong>and</strong> how to help<br />
yourself if need arises<br />
I pray to Allah to grant us all happy families<br />
<strong>and</strong> that if polygamy is written for me May<br />
Allah grant me a sister that will help us<br />
all build our home in Jannah <strong>and</strong> may He<br />
grant hubby <strong>the</strong> ability to do justice<br />
Complied by: Hamdalah Sulaiman<br />
(techymom)<br />
Jazakumullah khairan fiddunya WA akhira.<br />
We all appreciate your presence, your<br />
support, your contributions.<br />
We pray that in this small way we have<br />
been able to impact <strong>the</strong> unmah positively.<br />
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