Polygyny Among Arabs

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Abstract
Although Arabs are frequently characterized as possessing a harem of veiled and secluded wives, relatively little is actually known about the extent of polygyny among them. In this paper we present an examination of the levels and trends of polygyny in Arab countries in North Africa and Western Asia. The data are obtained primarily from the population censuses of 13 countries, and the registration records of marriage contracts for several countries. The period covers roughly the last three decades. These data also permit the analysis on a longitudinal basis for some countries, of differentials in polygyny by age, urban-rural residence, education, occupation and employment status. A number of findings of this study differ from commonly held views about polygynous Arab marriages. For example, the practice appears to be neither extensive nor uniform throughout the Arab countries. In addition, the trend in its prevalence varies between different countries. While in some countries the practice is decreasing, in others it seems to be increasing and in still others it has remained unchanged. The implications of the findings are discussed and suggestions are offered for areas of further research on the subject.

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