Hassan Hathout Quotes


We cannot say that polygamy is Haram (prohibited) in Islam. Nor was it prohibited in Judaism or Christianity, as evidenced by the Biblical prophets who were polygamous but never accused of violating the Divine law. Attempts to curb polygamy in Europe started in the sixth century (Emperor Justinean). Islam found polygamy and regulated it, the Quran setting criteria and conditions about which many Muslims were lax. Muslims in America face a special situation. Polygamy is illegal in America, and Islam would not permit a Muslim to commit an offence that lays him in jail. We American Muslims are subject to American law and we have the right of objection only if the law forces us to do something against Islam


Citations

Hassan Hathout, Physician & Religious Writer, “Reflections on Marriage and Divorce in America”, Muslim Women’s League Website, February 12, 2006

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Hassan Hathout
Hassan Hathout
  • Born: December 23, 1924
  • Died: April 25, 2009
  • Nationality:
  • Profession:

Hassan Hathout was a Muslim doctor and professor of medicine who lived in Britain, the Middle East, and the United States. Frequently referred to as having an encyclopedic personality, Hassan Hathout was also a theologian, humanist, speaker, writer and poet. A Medical School professor and chairman with degrees and certifications from the University of Edinburgh, the Royal College of Surgeons, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Surgeons, the International Federation of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Hassan Hathout was also a member of the World Health Organization's committee on the ethics of human reproduction.