Taking the first wife's permission for marrying the second

Q 2: A married man traveled to another country (Part No. 18; Page No. 414) then married in that country without informing his first wife. Is this permissible in the Islamic Shari`ah? Please substantiate your answer with evidence.

A: It is permissible for a man to marry a second wife without taking the consent of the first wife and without informing her as long as this serves a purpose and as long as he is able to afford marriage and be just to his two or more wives. Allah (Exalted be He) says, And if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with the orphan-girls then marry (other) women of your choice, two or three, or four; but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then only one or (the slaves) that your right hands possess. That is nearer to prevent you from doing injustice. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.