Topical Bible: Polygamy: The Evil Effects of Husband's Favoritism In

◄ Polygamy: The Evil Effects of Husband's Favoritism In ►

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Polygamy, the practice of having more than one wife, is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, often leading to familial discord and strife. One of the most significant issues arising from polygamous relationships is the favoritism shown by the husband towards one wife over the others, which can result in jealousy, rivalry, and division within the family unit.

Jacob, Leah, and Rachel

The account of Jacob, Leah, and Rachel is a prime example of the destructive effects of favoritism in a polygamous marriage. Jacob loved Rachel more than Leah, which led to deep-seated rivalry and heartache. Genesis 29:30-31 states, "Jacob slept with Rachel as well, and indeed, he loved Rachel more than Leah. So he worked for Laban another seven years. When the LORD saw that Leah was unloved, He opened her womb; but Rachel was barren." Leah's feelings of being unloved and Rachel's barrenness created a competitive environment, resulting in a struggle for Jacob's affection and the birth of many children through both wives and their maidservants.

Elkanah, Hannah, and Peninnah

Another example is found in the account of Elkanah, Hannah, and Peninnah. Elkanah had two wives, and he showed favoritism towards Hannah, who was childless, over Peninnah, who had children. 1 Samuel 1:5-6 notes, "But to Hannah he would give a double portion, for he loved her even though the LORD had closed her womb. Because the LORD had closed Hannah’s womb, her rival would provoke her and taunt her viciously." This favoritism led to Peninnah provoking Hannah, causing her great distress and sorrow.

Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar

The relationship between Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar also illustrates the negative consequences of favoritism. Although not a traditional polygamous marriage, the introduction of Hagar as a surrogate wife led to tension and conflict. Genesis 16:4-5 recounts, "And he slept with Hagar, and she conceived. But when she saw that she was pregnant, she began to despise her mistress. Then Sarai said to Abram, 'May the wrong done to me be upon you. I put my servant into your arms, and ever since she saw that she was pregnant, she has despised me. May the LORD judge between you and me.'" The favoritism and subsequent mistreatment of Hagar resulted in discord and eventual separation.

David and His Wives

King David's multiple marriages also led to favoritism and familial strife. His affection for Bathsheba, following the tragic events surrounding their union, had lasting repercussions on his family. The favoritism shown to Bathsheba and her son Solomon over David's other children contributed to the internal conflicts and power struggles within the royal household.

Solomon's Many Wives

Solomon, despite his wisdom, fell into the trap of polygamy, marrying many foreign women who led him astray. 1 Kings 11:3-4 states, "He had seven hundred wives of royal birth and three hundred concubines—and his wives turned his heart away. For when Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and he was not wholeheartedly devoted to the LORD his God, as his father David had been." The favoritism and divided loyalties in Solomon's heart ultimately led to spiritual decline and the division of the kingdom.

These biblical accounts highlight the inherent challenges and moral complexities associated with polygamy, particularly when favoritism is involved. The resulting jealousy, rivalry, and division underscore the importance of monogamous, faithful relationships as the ideal model for marriage.

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Deuteronomy 21:15-17
If a man have two wives, one beloved, and another hated, and they have born him children, both the beloved and the hated; and if the firstborn son be hers that was hated:
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