Community Attitude towards Polygamy

Oct 13, 2025 by talynt.org 139 views

Introduction

The phenomenon of polygamy in Indonesia has experienced a significant increase lately, with community leaders such as bureaucrats, politicians, artists, and religious leaders openly practicing it. Polygamy is an issue that is widely discussed in Indonesia, a country that allows polygamy on certain conditions based on the teachings of Islam, which is embraced by the majority of its population. Community understanding of polygamy in the context of religion also varies; Some argue that polygamy is justified in certain situations, while others feel that this practice should be avoided in this modern era.

Background of the Study

The case of AA Gym, a Kyai from Bandung who remarried in 2006, became a wide spotlight and triggered a warm debate on this controversial topic. This study aims to explore polygamy phenomena in Kampung Lalang, Medan, using qualitative methods and descriptive study approaches. Involving 15 informants, including 3 men and 3 women who are polygamy, as well as 9 other informants consisting of children from polygamy families and ordinary people, this research is trying to explore more deeply about the perspective of the community about polygamy.

Methodology

The data in this study were collected through interview and observation methods, which were strengthened by interview guidelines to facilitate the information gathering process. The results showed that the decision to polygamy is often considered a rational solution to deal with problems that have not been resolved in the household. Various factors encourage the husband to make this decision, such as conflict due to the inability to have children, concerns about adultery, as well as physical and economic conditions that make it possible to remarry.

Motivation for Polygamy

In terms of women, motivation to receive polygamy is often related to the desire to maintain the good name of the family, economic dependence on the husband, and the interests of children. Some wives also feel like being a soleha wife by maintaining family harmony, especially in dealing with the potential for infidelity that can damage the harmony of the household. There is an assumption among them that polygamy can be destiny that must be accepted.

Community Attitude towards Polygamy

The attitude of the community towards polygamy in Kampung Lalang varies. Some people support this practice, while others oppose it. There are also those who are neutral and do not dare to take a firm stand because of various considerations, both social and cultural. This creates interesting dynamics in social interaction of society, where differences of opinion can be a source of conflict but also opportunities for dialogue and deeper understanding.

Conclusion

This polygamy phenomenon illustrates how our society is trying to balance traditional values and changing social reality. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of polygamy, both from the positive and negative side, is very important to create balance and tolerance in the midst of differences in views. This research is expected to provide broader insights to the public about polygamy and facilitate constructive discussions about issues related to family and relationships between individuals in the context of modern society.

Implications of the Study

The findings of this study have several implications for the community, policymakers, and researchers. Firstly, the study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of polygamy, beyond the simplistic views of either supporting or opposing it. Secondly, the study suggests that polygamy is a complex issue that is influenced by various factors, including economic, social, and cultural factors. Finally, the study emphasizes the importance of promoting dialogue and understanding between different groups in the community, particularly between those who support and those who oppose polygamy.

Recommendations for Future Research

This study has several limitations, including the small sample size and the limited scope of the study. Therefore, future research should aim to explore polygamy in a more comprehensive and nuanced manner. Some potential areas of future research include:

Exploring the experiences of children from polygamy families: This study highlights the importance of considering the experiences of children from polygamy families, who may face unique challenges and opportunities.
Examining the impact of polygamy on women's empowerment: This study suggests that polygamy may have both positive and negative impacts on women's empowerment, depending on the context and circumstances.
Investigating the role of religion in shaping attitudes towards polygamy: This study highlights the importance of considering the role of religion in shaping attitudes towards polygamy, particularly in a country like Indonesia where Islam is the dominant religion.

By exploring these and other areas, future research can provide a more comprehensive understanding of polygamy and its implications for individuals, families, and communities.

Q: What is polygamy?

A: Polygamy is a practice where one person has multiple spouses, either simultaneously or at different times. In the context of this study, polygamy refers to the practice of having multiple wives.

Q: Is polygamy allowed in Indonesia?

A: Yes, polygamy is allowed in Indonesia, but only under certain conditions. According to Islamic law, a man can have up to four wives if he can provide for them equally and justly.

Q: What are the motivations for polygamy?

A: The motivations for polygamy vary depending on the individual and the context. Some men may choose polygamy as a way to resolve conflicts in their household, such as infertility or adultery. Others may do it for economic or social reasons.

Q: What are the experiences of women in polygamous marriages?

A: The experiences of women in polygamous marriages can vary widely. Some women may feel empowered by the opportunity to have multiple husbands, while others may feel trapped or exploited. In this study, some women reported feeling like they were maintaining family harmony by accepting polygamy.

Q: How does the community view polygamy?

A: The community's view of polygamy is complex and varied. Some people support polygamy as a legitimate practice, while others oppose it as a form of exploitation or oppression. In this study, some people reported feeling neutral or ambivalent about polygamy, while others were strongly opposed to it.

Q: What are the implications of polygamy for children?

A: The implications of polygamy for children can be significant. Children from polygamous families may face unique challenges, such as navigating multiple relationships and competing for attention and resources. In this study, some children reported feeling like they were caught in the middle of their parents' conflicts.

Q: How can we promote dialogue and understanding about polygamy?

A: Promoting dialogue and understanding about polygamy requires a willingness to listen to and engage with different perspectives. This can involve creating safe spaces for people to share their experiences and opinions, as well as engaging in respectful and open-minded discussions.

Q: What are the limitations of this study?

A: This study has several limitations, including the small sample size and the limited scope of the study. Future research should aim to explore polygamy in a more comprehensive and nuanced manner.

Q: What are the implications of this study for policymakers and researchers?

A: The findings of this study have several implications for policymakers and researchers. Firstly, the study highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of polygamy, beyond the simplistic views of either supporting or opposing it. Secondly, the study suggests that polygamy is a complex issue that is influenced by various factors, including economic, social, and cultural factors. Finally, the study emphasizes the importance of promoting dialogue and understanding between different groups in the community, particularly between those who support and those who oppose polygamy.

Q: What are the recommendations for future research?

A: This study has several limitations, including the small sample size and the limited scope of the study. Therefore, future research should aim to explore polygamy in a more comprehensive and nuanced manner. Some potential areas of future research include:

Exploring the experiences of children from polygamy families: This study highlights the importance of considering the experiences of children from polygamy families, who may face unique challenges and opportunities.
Examining the impact of polygamy on women's empowerment: This study suggests that polygamy may have both positive and negative impacts on women's empowerment, depending on the context and circumstances.
Investigating the role of religion in shaping attitudes towards polygamy: This study highlights the importance of considering the role of religion in shaping attitudes towards polygamy, particularly in a country like Indonesia where Islam is the dominant religion.