Explain two DIFFERENT religious beliefs about polygamy.

In your answer you must refer to one or more religious traditions. [4 marks]

Christianity

Many Christians reject polygamy: they say that you should only be able to marry one person at a time.

They point out that Adam and Eve were a monogamous couple.

They argue that this is the model that all marriages should follow.

Islam

Some Muslims believe it is permissible for a man to marry multiple women (up to four at a time).

They point out that the Qur’an allows it (4.3.).

Furthermore, some of Allah’s prophets (e.g. Prophet  Ibrahim) had multiple wives, so the practice is acceptable in at least some cases.

Buddhism

Some Tibetan Buddhists believe that it is permissible for a woman to marry multiple men (if they are brothers).

They argue that the Buddha left no specific teaching on how many partners a person can marry.

Instead, he emphasised the importance of treating your marriage partner(s) with metta (loving-kindness) and karuna (compassion).