Women, marriage, and family in Islam
What the Qurʼān and ḥadīth say about marriage, polygamy, divorce, and the rights of women — read through classical fiqh and modern Muslim scholarship.
Questions in this hub
- Does the Qurʼān permit striking wives?
Q 4:34 prescribes a three-step disciplinary process. The third word — wa-ḍribūhunna — has been read different ways by classical and modern Muslim scholars.
- Why does Islam permit polygamy?
Q 4:3 permits up to four wives if treated justly; Q 4:129 says you can never be just between them. How do classical and modern Muslims read the two verses together?
- Does Islam permit child marriage?
Q 65:4 references waiting periods for women "who have not yet menstruated." Classical fiqh permitted prepubescent marriage; modern Muslim laws and scholars vary.