Why did Prophet Muhammad have 11 wives despite Islam allowing only 4?

Al-jawab billahi at-taufeeq (the answer with Allah’s guidance)

Why the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) married more women than was allowed to his Ummah:

1) The Divine Decree in the Glorious Quran exempted Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) from the same law that is decreed for his Ummah i.e., marry up to four wives, if one can afford.

Allah Ta’ala Says:

“You (O Muhammad) can postpone (the turn of) whom you will of them (your wives), and you may receive whom you will. And whomsoever you desire of those whom you have set aside (her turn temporarily), it is no sin on you (to receive her again), that is better; that they may be comforted and not grieved, and may all be pleased with what you give them. Allah knows what is in your hearts. And Allah is Ever All Knowing, Most Forbearing.” (33:51)

2) He was the messenger for the men of the children of Adam (Alaihis Salam) and was equally messenger for their women. So, it was necessary that some women remain in his company forever and learn different things from him to teach them to the other women. They may preach to their fellow women. That is why Prophet married more women than he had allowed his people.

(See:The wisdom Behind the command of Islam by ‘Moalana Ashraf Ali’ Pg. 220-226)

And Only Allah Ta’ala Knows Best.

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Moulana Qamruz Zaman
London, UK