As an expert in the field of social studies and law, I can provide an informed perspective on the question of polygamy and the legality of having multiple wives in various societies. It is important to note that the legality and cultural acceptance of polygamy vary greatly across different countries and regions. The question of how many wives a man can have is not a one-size-fits-all answer and is deeply rooted in the legal codes and cultural norms of a particular place.
Polygamy refers to the practice of having more than one spouse at the same time. This can take different forms, such as polygyny, where a man has multiple wives, and polyandry, where a woman has multiple husbands. The acceptance and legality of polygamy have evolved over time and are influenced by a multitude of factors, including religion, tradition, and the legal framework of a country.

In many Western countries, including the United States and Canada, polygamy is illegal. The reference to Canada's Criminal Code Section 293 is accurate in that it criminalizes polygamy. The enforcement of this law, however, can be complex and may vary. The mention of a community that has practiced polygamy for over half a century, despite its illegality, highlights the tension between religious beliefs and the law. The community in question appears to be a part of a fundamentalist Mormon sect that has different interpretations of religious doctrine concerning marriage.

The belief that a man must marry at least three wives to enter heaven is specific to certain sects within this group and is not representative of all religious or cultural perspectives on marriage. It is crucial to differentiate between religious doctrine and the legal standards that govern a country. While individuals are entitled to their religious beliefs, these beliefs must align with the laws of the land to be practiced without penalty.

In contrast, there are countries where polygamy is legal and culturally accepted. For instance, in some African and Middle Eastern countries, it is not uncommon for men to have multiple wives, often due to cultural traditions and interpretations of religious texts. However, even in these societies, there are often legal restrictions and social norms that govern the practice to ensure the welfare of all parties involved.

The number of wives a man can have is thus contingent upon the jurisdiction in which he lives. In countries where polygamy is illegal, a man cannot legally have more than one wife at a time. In places where it is permitted, the number may vary based on cultural practices and individual circumstances, but it is always subject to the laws and regulations of that country.

It is also important to consider the impact of polygamy on society and the individuals involved. There are numerous social, economic, and psychological factors that can influence the dynamics of a polygamous family. The well-being of the wives and any children involved must be taken into account, and the practice should not infringe upon the rights and freedoms of the individuals concerned.

In conclusion, the question of how many wives a man can have is not a simple one to answer due to the vast differences in legal and cultural norms across the world. It is essential to respect the legal framework of each country while being mindful of the cultural and religious diversity that shapes perspectives on marriage.

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The community has done so for more than half a century, even though polygamy is illegal under Section 293 of Canada's Criminal Code. Bountiful's residents are part of a fundamentalist breakaway Mormon sect, which believes that a man must marry at least three wives in order, one day, to enter heaven.Nov 23, 2010read more >>