Women’s Rights in the light of Islam

People have a misconception that women are liberated in the west whereas the women’s liberation movement started in the seventh century, by God’s command to a man who is known as the last Prophet of Islam. The rights of Muslim women are derived from the teachings of the Qur’an and the traditions of Muhammad (P.B.U.H). In an era of darkness, where women were subjected to scorn and degradation, Islam uplifted their dignity by clarifying simple yet important issues such as human, social, political, civil and economic rights.

Human Rights:

Fourteen centuries ago, Islam established women’s equality with men in glorifying and worshipping Allah. He made it clear that since both men and women have been formed from the same essence, they are completely equal in their humanity.

Civil Rights:

Islam has given women the basic freedom of expression and choice based on her individual recognition and personality. Qur’an encourages women to contribute their ideas and opinions without any hesitation. In many traditions of the Holy Prophet, we find women would directly pose questions and also give their opinions on matters concerning religion, social and economic issues. Muslim woman’s testimony is acceptable in all legal disputes.

Social Rights:

The Prophet made it clear through his teachings that men and women both have equal rights for acquiring education and have equal capacity for understanding and learning. The duties of women are not just confined to the maintenance of their homes, raising and upbringing of their children but also to support their husbands by working outdoors. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) further dignified mothers by bestowing heaven under their feet.

Political Rights:

God awarded women with the right to vote almost 1400 years ago. She has the right to voice her opinion on any public matter and can actively participate in politics. Islam has never forbidden women from holding dominant positions in Government. Women have the right to select their leaders and declare them publically.

Economic Rights:

God has affirmed that men and women have been created to be different, with unique functions and skills. Each family member has different roles to play. The men have to play the guardian role whereas women are entrusted with the nurturing role. The Muslim women have the privilege to earn money, the legal right to own property and to manage all of her assets as she pleases.

Rights of a Wife:

Islam states that in a marriage, both man and woman are to protect each other and hide one another’s faults.  Consequently, the first right that a woman is entitled to in marriage is that of ‘mahr,’ which consists of a material amount that a husband gifts to the woman. It is also required for the legality of the marriage. Furthermore, a wife is entitled to the wealth of her man.

Duties of a Wife:

A wife has certain obligations towards her husband and family. A wife should protect her marital privacy and her husband’s secrets. She must safeguard his possessions and coordinate and cooperate with her husband.

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