Is two wives allowed in jainism
In Jainism, having two wives at the same time (polygamy) is not allowed as an ideal or religiously approved practice.
Briefly:
- For lay Jains (householders):
- The Jain ideal is
monogamy – one husband and one wife at a time.
- Marriage is seen as a social arrangement to live a disciplined, ethical life, not for increasing sensual enjoyment.
- Having multiple wives creates attachment, jealousy, and potential himsa (mental and emotional hurt), which goes against
ahimsa and
aparigraha (non‑possessiveness).
- They are completely
celibate and have no marriage at all.
- Both traditions uphold
faithfulness to one spouse as the proper way for a grihastha (householder).
- Historical kings or people in society may have had many wives, but Jain dharma does
not present that as a spiritual ideal.
So, from a Jain dharmic point of view:
No, keeping two wives together is not in line with Jain principles; one spouse with fidelity and restraint is the correct path.
You can read more here