Is it permissible for a man to house two wives in the same dwelling without their mutual consent?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of the Wedding Feast

Book 37 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

It is forbidden for a man to combine two of his wives in a single dwelling without the consent of both, regardless of whether they are young or old. This prohibition is based on the harm that arises from the inherent enmity and jealousy between them, which can incite quarreling and fighting. Furthermore, each wife hearing or witnessing the husband's intimacy with the other constitutes harm.

Supporting text

If both wives willingly consent to sharing the same dwelling despite the potential harm, the arrangement is permissible because the right to consent or waive it belongs to them. Likewise, if they consent to him sleeping between them under one covering, it is allowed.