multiple wives

“Polygamy and Jewish Tradition”
(Updated and revised from Kee Teitzei 5761-2001)
The Torah very clearly frowns on polygamous relationships. In every single instance in scripture where a man has more than one wife, the relationship is troubled. Why then does the Torah permit a man to have more than one wife, even though it’s discouraged?

“Polygamy, Illegitimacy and Punishing the Innocent”
(Revised and updated from Kee Teitzei 5760-2000)

Summary: The concept of מַמְזְרוּת--mam’z’rut, illegitimacy, in Judaism, is a very painful topic in Jewish life, but one that underscores the extreme sanctity with which Judaism views the family. Once the sanctity of life is compromised, Jewish life is compromised. The Torah has much to teach concerning proper conduct and compassion in the face of profoundly difficult societal issues and choices.

"Polygamy and Jewish Tradition"

The Torah very clearly frowns on polygamist relationships. In every single instance in scripture where a man has more than one wife, the relationship is troubled. What then is the reason that the Torah permits a man to have more than one wife, even though it's discouraged?

"Polygamy, Illegitimacy and Punishing the Innocent"

The concept of mamzerut, illegitimacy in Judaism, is a very painful topic in Jewish life but one that underscores the extreme sanctity with which Judaism views the family. Once the sanctity of life is compromised, Jewish life is compromised. The Torah has much to teach about conduct and compassion in the face of difficult societal issues and choices.