The Importance and Value of Women in Islamic Society

 



All praise is due to Allah the Lord of the universe may He Azawajal bless the Prophet Sallah Llah Alei Wasalam and the companions and all the generality of Muslims.

Woman are not created as slave, they have value to Islam as legislated in the Qur'an and Sunnah.

Abu Shurayh Khuwaylid ibn ‘Amr al-Khuzā‘i and Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with both of them) reported that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "O Allah, I declare strictly inviolable the rights of the two weak ones: the orphan and the woman." [Hasan/Sound] - [Ibn Majah - An-Nasai - Ahmad]

The wording in Arabic is “inni uharriju/ اني أُحَرِّجُ”

This basically means, I declare blameworthy and deem a sinner those who transgress the rights of these two “weak” ones. So it is a warning to those who take advantage of orphans and women, in whatever way. This, of course, is in general.

Most have no problems understanding the first category, the orphan. However, we may hear objections from some concerning the second category, women. This is because we have these false and ridiculous claims being made these days that women are equal to men in every way and they can fend for themselves. They aren’t vulnerable and they can handle themselves. 

Sadly, these people do not understand that referring to women as weak is not an insult nor is it derogatory or belittling. It is simply stating a fact, a natural characteristic. 

Do we not see how many organizations and movements there are today to protect the rights of women? Why? Because they are being taken advantage of and abused in many ways. Why? Because they are weak and vulnerable. 

It is because many men take advantage of women in a variety of ways that they are threatened by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and warned against doing so.

 The believer takes this seriously. Knowing that the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) will advocate on their behalf and that he considers this a crime deters (or should deter) the believing man from wronging and violating the rights of women. This applies to husbands, bosses and whoever dares to violate her rights.

An important point we should keep in mind is that the weaker and more vulnerable a person is, the greater the care, attention and concern afforded them by Allah.

In Islamic society, women hold significant importance and value as integral members who contribute to the fabric of society in various ways. Here are some key aspects highlighting the importance and value of women in Islamic society:

1. Equal in the Sight of Allah: Islam teaches that men and women are equal in the sight of Allah in terms of their spiritual worth and accountability. Both genders are equally responsible for fulfilling their religious duties, seeking knowledge, and striving for righteousness.

2. Roles and Responsibilities: While Islam recognizes inherent biological differences between men and women, it emphasizes complementary roles rather than hierarchical ones. Women have been assigned roles such as nurturing the family, raising children, maintaining the household, and contributing to the well-being of society through their skills, talents, and knowledge.

3. Educational Opportunities: Islam emphasizes the importance of education for both men and women. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged seeking knowledge and learning, and Muslim women throughout history have made significant contributions to various fields such as scholarship, science, medicine, and literature.

4. Economic Participation: Islam permits women to engage in lawful economic activities and entrepreneurship, provided they adhere to Islamic principles of modesty and morality. Women have the right to own property, conduct business, and participate in economic ventures, contributing to the financial stability and prosperity of their families and communities.

5. Social and Moral Guidance: Women in Islamic society play a crucial role in upholding social and moral values within their families and communities. They serve as moral guides, educators, and caregivers, nurturing future generations and instilling Islamic principles of compassion, empathy, justice, and integrity.

6. Legal Rights and Protections: Islam grants women a range of legal rights and protections, including the right to inheritance, the right to marry by choice, the right to seek divorce under certain circumstances, and protection from exploitation and abuse. Islamic law (Shariah) aims to safeguard the dignity, rights, and well-being of women in all aspects of life.

7. Spiritual Leadership: Women in Islam have the opportunity to attain spiritual excellence and leadership through devotion, worship, and adherence to Islamic principles. They have the right to engage in acts of worship, seek spiritual knowledge, and serve as spiritual mentors and role models for others.

8. Recognition and Appreciation: Islam emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the contributions of women to society. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) expressed admiration for the virtues and qualities of women and emphasized the significance of respecting and honoring them.

Be Easy With Your Wife

O you husband! It is not from good companionship that you overburden your wife and wear her out in fulfilling your rights upon her, but rather that you behave in the proper way and overlook some of your rights in order to fulfill that which is important, which is good companionship and being easy with your wife. 

In summary, women hold immense importance and value in Islamic society as vital contributors to the well-being, stability, and progress of their families, communities, and the ummah (Muslim community) as a whole. Islam emphasizes the empowerment, dignity, and rights of women, and encourages their active participation and leadership in all spheres of life within the framework of Islamic teachings and values.

May Allaah Rectify us all and keep us firm upon Goodness. Lastly may Jannatul Firdaus be out finally abode.

 Aameen

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