1. Introduction
Polygamy is a form of marriage where a person is married to more than one partner, and it has been practiced in many cultures around the world for centuries. In Japan, polygamy is not widely accepted or practiced, but it does exist in certain parts of the country. This article will explore the history and legality of polygamy in Japan, as well as the cultural attitudes and religious perceptions surrounding the practice.
2. Historical Overview of Polygamy in Japan
Polygamy has been practiced in Japan since ancient times, although it was mainly limited to members of the nobility or those with high social standing. During the Edo period (1603-1868), polygamy was more common among wealthy merchants and samurai warriors, who often had multiple wives or concubines. The practice was also prevalent among some Buddhist sects during this time period. After the Meiji Restoration in 1868, however, polygamy was officially outlawed by law and has since been largely seen as taboo in Japanese society.
3. Modern Day Polygamy in Japan
Today, polygamy is still practiced by some people in rural areas of Japan, although it is not widely accepted or openly discussed. In addition, there are still some religious sects that allow for polygamous marriages to take place within their communities. However, these marriages are not legally recognized by the government and are considered to be informal unions between two parties.
4. Legality of Polygamy in Japan
As previously mentioned, polygamy is illegal under Japanese law and any marriages involving multiple partners will not be recognized by the government or courts of law. This means that any children born out of such unions will not receive legal recognition or protection from their parents’ marriage status. Furthermore, if a man were to be found guilty of polygamy he could face up to three years imprisonment under Japanese law.
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5. Cultural Attitudes Towards Polygamy in Japan
In general, Japanese culture views polygamy as being immoral and socially unacceptable due to its association with promiscuity and adultery. It is seen as an affront to traditional values such as monogamous relationships and family loyalty which are highly valued within Japanese society today. As such, most people frown upon those who engage in polygamous relationships and view them with suspicion or disdain.
6 Religious Perceptions of Polygamy in Japan
Religious views on polygamy vary depending on which faith you adhere to; however many religions condemn it outright due to its association with adultery and promiscuity which are seen as sinful acts according to most faiths including Buddhism and Shintoism which are predominant faiths within Japan today.Some sects within Christianity also reject polygamy on similar grounds while others may accept it depending on their interpretation of scripture.
7 Benefits and Drawbacks of Polygamy in Japan
The main benefit associated with polygamous relationships is that they can provide a sense of security for both partners involved; however this can also create problems if one partner feels neglected or left out due to unequal attention given by their spouse(s). Additionally,there can be financial implications associated with having multiple spouses due to increased living costs.Finally,there may be legal issues surrounding child custody if a couple were to separate,making this an important factor when considering entering into a polygamous marriage.
8 Conclusion
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In conclusion,while polygamy has been practiced historically within certain parts of Japan,it remains illegal under current laws.Furthermore,most people view it as socially unacceptable due to its association with promiscuity,adultery,financial strain,and potential legal issues regarding child custody.Despite this however,there are still some religious sects that allow for polygamous marriages within their communities.Ultimately,whether one chooses to enter into a polygamous relationship should depend on individual circumstances & beliefs.
9 Sources
Tokoyama C R (2020). Is Polygamy Normal In Japan? [online] Available at: https://www..japaninsiders..com/polygamy-normal-in-japan/ [Accessed 3 April 2020].
Hirakawa S (2013). A History Of Marriage And Divorce In Pre-Modern And Modern JAPAN [online] Available at: https://www..japanesestudies..org/review/article/viewFile/260/273 [Accessed 3 April 2020].
How many wives is legal in Japan?
Re: Can I have 2 wives in Japan? Polygamy is illegal in Japan so you cannot get married here. Also as far as I understand Japan does not recognize polygamous marriages which are legal in other countries but some countries do (eg England Australia etc).
For others in Japan which outlawed polygamy in the 1880s the process was more of a betrayal than a surrender. Only in the last 100 years has most of humanity been able to live in societies where polygamy is illegal.
Can you marry your sister in Japan?
Male partners must be at least 18 years of age and female partners must be at least 18 years of age. In Japan people under the age of 18 cannot marry without parental consent. Most people who marry through blood adoption or other marriages cannot marry in Japan.
Why do Japanese don’t marry?
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One in four Japanese people in their 30s say they have no plans to get married. Analysts say this is due to growing economic pressures and a desire to live without social responsibility.
How common is sexless marriage in Japan?
The association said 472 percent of men and women said they were same-sex married up from 26 percent in the previous 2014 survey and up from 319 percent when the First Chamber survey was conducted. Inside attitude
Are age gaps normal in Japan?
Is age difference in relationships common in Japan? Freer than western countries. Older man/younger woman marriage or relationship is very common in Japan. A simple reason is that older men earn more and work less due to the top-down inheritance of Japanese culture and society.