Polygamy: Justification of "golden umbrella" is based on false hadith

SHAH ALAM – There is no such thing as a "golden umbrella" or special rewards for wives who allow their husbands to practice polygamy as the matter was cited in a false hadith.

Taking to Twitter earlier today, former Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Seri Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri said the practice of polygamy must be viewed based on the benefits of all parties involved rather than using the aforementioned argument alone.

"You cannot set a ruling based on the justification it is from the sunnah or otherwise, instead look towards the benefits.

"Same goes for polygamy. At times it is necessary and at times it is unneeded and in fact, it can turn into abuse.

"The hukum for polygamy itself can be sunat, harus and haram. It is not wrong for the wife to question the decision of her husband to practice polygamy or forbid him based on needs.

"Better to discuss properly, give advice and opinions, for the sake to avoid any oppression or cruelty towards the rights of the wife and kids,'' said Zulkifli.

In Islam, the term “harus” means permissible, while “wajib” means obligatory, and "sunat" means encouraged.

Zulkifli further explained that it is not the attitude of Muslims to go against the law of Allah SWT especially those set in certain conditions that have their own hikmah (insight)

However, Zulkifli advised the ummah against using religion for personal gain to the extent of denying the rights of others.