* A man may attract multiple wives if he has the financial means to support them and their children. It makes good sense to have a husband and father that can support you and your children, far better than having one who cannot, or even worse one you have to support.
* A man may attract multiple wives if he has some significantly favorable trait. This is the same reason why most animals are polygamous. The most genetically fit specimen gets to pass on its DNA. During slavery times it was the most desirable slave (male) that impregnated the majority of female slaves. * There maybe a shortage of males. This is particularly true following major wars when the number of young men is suddenly very low.
* A man may be able to attract multiple wives simply by being nicer. This is similar to certain birds succeeding in multiple matings because their plumage is better. * Certain men in positions of great power find themselves becoming a dumping ground for unwanted females. King Solomon had 800 wives surely not because he wanted that many but because other people wanted him to be their son-in-law. The short answer would be because it makes good financial and genetic sense. If it didn't then the practice would quickly be forgotten.
The practice of having multiple wives in certain cultures and religions was allowed due to historical and cultural reasons, as well as the social norms of the time. In some cases, it was seen as a way to ensure the survival of a family or tribe, or to provide for widows and orphans. Additionally, it was believed to be a way to increase the population and strengthen familial ties. Ultimately, the acceptance of multiple wives varied across different societies and was influenced by a combination of cultural, social, and religious factors.
Maasai men can have multiple wives, with the number often depending on their wealth and social status. Traditionally, a man may have several wives to increase his status and to ensure a larger family, which is important for pastoralist cultures. There is no strict limit, but having multiple wives requires significant resources to support them and their children.
A person who has two wives is commonly referred to as a polygamist, and this practice is known as polygamy. In some cultures and religions, such as certain Islamic communities, men may have multiple wives, while polyandry refers to a woman having multiple husbands. Both practices are legal and accepted in certain parts of the world, but they are often subject to legal and ethical debates in others.
The person is a bigamist. In some countries and cultures, bigamy is not illegal.
In some African cultures, polyandry, where a woman has multiple husbands, is practiced, though it is relatively rare compared to polygamy (one man with multiple wives). Tribes in regions like Tibet and certain parts of Africa may allow this arrangement for various cultural, economic, or social reasons. However, the majority of African tribes traditionally follow a polygynous model, where a man can have multiple wives. The specific practices can vary significantly based on local customs and traditions.
No, it is not permissible in Christianity for individuals to have multiple wives.
Polygamy is a form of marriage in which an individual has multiple spouses at the same time. This practice can take various forms, such as polygyny (one husband with multiple wives) or polyandry (one wife with multiple husbands). Polygamy is permitted in some cultures and religions, while it is illegal in others.
No. In Western countries you can only be legally married to one person at a time. If the person you "married" was already married to someone else your marriage is invalid. Your intended spouse must obtain a divorce from his/her spouse before they can marry you.
Polygamy, traditionally defined as a person having multiple spouses, is primarily associated with men having multiple wives (polygyny). In most cultures and legal systems, polyandry, where a woman has multiple husbands, is much less common and often not legally recognized. However, some communities and cultures do practice polyandry, allowing women to have multiple husbands. Ultimately, the practice depends on cultural, legal, and social contexts.
It depends on their religion. Some have one but some have as many as 12!
Historically, some kings known for having many wives include King Solomon of Israel, who is often cited as having 700 wives and 300 concubines. Another example is King Henry VIII of England, who had six wives, though not all were simultaneous. In the context of polygamous cultures, King Mswati III of Eswatini has had multiple wives, reportedly over 15. Lastly, King Ashoka of ancient India is said to have had numerous queens, although exact numbers vary.
In some religious texts, such as the Bible and the Quran, there are instances of individuals having multiple wives. However, interpretations of these texts vary among different religious groups. Some believe that having multiple wives was permitted in the past but is not encouraged in modern times. Ultimately, the acceptance of polygamy as a practice permitted by God depends on individual beliefs and interpretations of religious teachings.