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Originally Published Online by Peter G Rambo, Sr. on 7/1/2019

[I wrote and published the following paper about a year ago, but never posted directly to this blog. Because of recent inquiries and a few questions, I find it necessary to put this front and center for deeper consideration. A full Biblical defense of my position is available through the resources at the end of this paper and various articles and papers both mine and many other authors on my Biblical Marriage page. Shalom!]

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It’s been more than a year since I wrote and published my position on a most controversial topic, one I had studied, reluctantly, for the four previous years. In fact, I really didn’t want to publish anything or go on record with a Biblical defense and evidence, but my hand was forced by twittering voices more interested in stirring pots than seeking truth.

The subject, Biblical polygamy, or more precisely, polygyny – a man having more than one wife – is indeed controversial, at least in traditional Western Christianity. Yet, inspite of the stigma and the controversy, the subject, even practice, is popping up all over and sneaking into the fabric and conversation of both Christian and Hebrew roots people across the planet.

The purpose of this article is not to present a Biblical case for or against. Frankly, an honest look at Scripture, particularly in the original languages, demonstrates that there is no case against it anywhere in Scripture. God never condemns it, but regulates and in cases requires polygyny. He endorses polygyny at points and refers to Himself on at least three occasions as having two brides. Honest exegesis leads to no reasonable conclusion against. The bibliography has multiple online papers and in print books clearly and articulately defending Biblical marriage.

Maybe, instead of knee-jerk condemnation, because the Biblical evidence for polygyny is rock solid, we would be better served to ask two questions: Why polygyny? Why now?