Duawaya in Islam: Best Guide by Honor, Balance, and Responsibility

In Islam, marriage is considered a sacred contract and a way to build a family and community. One of the teachings in Islam allows a man, under certain rules, to marry more than one wife. This practice is called polygamy, and in some Muslim communities in the Philippines, especially among the Bangsamoro, it is also called Duawaya.

• How Can Polygamous (Duwaya Marriages) Be Managed Fairly According to Islamic Principles? Read more
• How to Register a Marriage in a Shariah Court? Read more
• What Happens in Cases of Forced Marriage? Can the Marriage Be Annulled Under Islamic Law? Read more
• How Can Muslim Women Seek Legal Advice or Representation During Divorce Proceedings? Read more

What is Duawaya in Islam? #

• Duawaya (Polygamy) means a Muslim man is permitted to marry up to four wives at the same time.
• This is only allowed if the man is fair, just, and responsible in providing for all wives equally.
• It is based on the Qur’an (Surah An-Nisa 4:3), which gives this permission but strongly emphasizes justice.

4 Conditions of Duawaya #

For Duawaya (polygamous marriage) to be valid in Islam:

1. Justice – The husband must treat all wives fairly in terms of food, clothing, shelter, and time.
2. Financial Ability – He must be capable of providing for all wives and children. (See What Are the Financial Obligations (e.g., Mahr, Alimony) After a Islamic Divorce?)
3. Good Intention – Not for lust alone, but for reasons like protecting widows, strengthening families, or fulfilling social needs.
4. Maximum of Four Wives – Not beyond what Islam prescribes.

Practice in the Philippines #

• Among Muslim Filipinos (especially in Mindanao), Duawaya is recognized under the Code of Muslim Personal Laws of the Philippines (Presidential Decree 1083).
• This law allows Muslim men to practice polygamy, but it requires court approval to ensure the man can be just and capable.
• This means the practice is regulated and not just freely done.

Purpose of Duawaya #

• To protect women who may be widows or orphans.
• To prevent immorality by providing lawful marriages.
• To strengthen family and community bonds when done with fairness.

Duawaya in Islam is the practice of polygamous marriage where a Muslim man may marry up to four wives, but only if he is just, responsible, and capable. In the Philippines, it is legally recognized for Muslims and must follow both Islamic principles and government regulation.