A woman can have only one husband at a time in Islam.
Based on Islamic teachings and societal norms, a woman is permitted to be married to only one man at any given time. This is clearly stated in the provided reference, explaining that:
"Muslim women could marry only one man at a time so that the paternity of her child was clear."
This principle is primarily rooted in the need to establish clear lineage and paternity, which is significant in Islamic family law and inheritance regulations. The prohibition of polygamy for women ensures that the father of a child is definitively known, which is crucial in patrilineal societies where children are considered to belong to the father's family.
Here is a breakdown in a table:
| Aspect | Islamic Law | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Husbands | One at a time | Prevents confusion about paternity; ensures clear lineage |
| Remarriage | Permitted after divorce or death | A woman can remarry after she is divorced or widowed, but she must complete the waiting period ('Iddah) in case of divorce. |
| Reason | Paternity and lineage | Islamic family law places great importance on knowing the father's identity for purposes of family and inheritance. |
Key Concepts:
- Paternity: The identity of the father of a child.
- Lineage: The descent from an ancestor, which is very important in Islamic family law.
- 'Iddah: The waiting period a divorced or widowed woman must observe before remarrying.
Further Considerations:
- Divorce and Remarriage: The provided reference confirms that "a woman may marry again if her husband divorces her or if he dies." This highlights that while a woman can only have one husband at a time, there are provisions for remarriage if the previous marriage is terminated through divorce or the husband's death.
- Contrast with Male Polygamy: It is important to note that Islam permits men to have up to four wives simultaneously under specific conditions, whereas women can have only one husband at a time. This difference underscores the significance of paternity within Islamic family structures.
Therefore, in the context of Islamic law, the answer to the question is clear: a woman is permitted to be married to only one husband at any given moment.
