Polygamy and Right-Hand Possession: The Deferred Abrogation.. or the Abrogation through Transformation

This article explores the Qur’anic wisdom in addressing sensitive social issues such as polygamy and alcohol consumption. It highlights two distinct approaches: immediate abrogation (explicit textual revocation, as with alcohol) and deferred abrogation (gradual nullification through evolving social conditions, as with polygamy). The Qur’anic method combines ethical preparation, conditional permissions, and contextual flexibility, allowing deeply rooted practices to be phased out without societal disruption. Time itself is presented as a divine tool for abrogation, reflecting Islam’s adaptability to human progress.