Random Thoughts on Polygamy

While we are on the subject of sexuality (see previous post), let's touch on an interesting problem. Multiple wives (i.e. polygamy).

Radical sects of Mormons, Muslims, and other religious groups condone the practice of taking and providing for various wives. It shows status, provides many children, and allows for sexual relations within marriage. This is official polygamy. And people think it is weird enough that most of the world (including the US) hold it to be illegal. Men with multiple wives can't vote and can be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

Ok. Now 1 Cor. 6:12-20 implies that when a man has sexual relations with a woman, he is - in effect - marrying her before God.

So what about all those single guys out there who, on paper in the government's eyes, are single, but they have had sexual relations with two, four, or twelve different women? Are they unofficial polygamists? Why are they winked at (after they destroy a girl's self image, sometimes leaving her stranded with kids and no provision) while polygamous men are outlawed (and they actually provide for the girls they get pregnant)?

Now, I'm not saying I think polygamy is right. The Bible clearly states that God meant for one man and one woman to be united in a sexual relationship with each other as long as the marriage stands. I just find the hypocrisy interesting... falling on the side of irresponsible guys. Just my thoughts on the subject.