Polygamy is a marriage practice where a person has more than one spouse at the same time. This can occur in two main forms: polygyny, where a man has multiple wives, and polyandry, where a woman has multiple husbands. Polygamy is often influenced by cultural, religious, or economic factors and is legal in some countries but illegal in others. In many societies that practice polygamy, it is seen as a way to strengthen family ties and increase social status. However, it can also lead to challenges, such as jealousy and unequal treatment among spouses. Understanding polygamy requires considering the diverse beliefs and traditions surrounding it.