Gender Equity in Islam
I. Introduction & Methodology
When dealing with the Islamic perspective of any topic, there should be a clear
distinction between the normative teachings of Islam and the diverse cultural practices
among Muslims, which may or may not be consistent with them. The focus of this paper
is the normative teachings of Islam as the criteria to judge Muslim practices and
evaluate their compliance with Islam. In identifying what is "Islamic," it is necessary to
make a distinction between the primary sources of Islam (the Qur'an and the Sunnah)
and legal opinions of scholars on specific issues, which may vary and be influenced by
their times, circumstances, and cultures. Such opinions and verdicts do not enjoy the
infallibility accorded to the primary and revelatory sources. Furthermore,
interpretation of the primary sources should consider, among other things:
(a) The context of any text in the Qur'an and the Sunnah. This includes the general
context of Islam, its teachings, its world view, and the context of the surah and section
thereof.
(b) The occasion of the revelation, which may shed light on its meanings,
(c) The role of the Sunnah in explaining and defining the meaning of the Qur'anic text.
This paper is a brief review of the position and role of woman in society from an
Islamic perspective. The topic is divided into spiritual, economic, social, and political
aspects.
II. The Spiritual Aspect
1. According to the Qur'an, men and women have the same spiritual human nature:
O mankind: Reverence your Guardian-Lord Who created you from a single person
created of like nature his mate and from them twain scattered (like seeds) countless men
and women; reverence Allah through Whom you demand your mutual (rights) and
(reverence) the wombs (that bore you): for Allah ever watches over you. (Qur'an 4:1)
It is He who created you from a single person and made his mate of like nature in order
that he might dwell with her (in love). When they are united she bears a light burden
and carries it about (unnoticed). When she grows heavy they both pray to Allah their
Lord (saying): "If You give us a goodly child we vow we shall (ever) be grateful."
(Qur'an 7:189)
(He is) the Creator of the heavens and the earth: He has made for you pairs from among
yourselves and pairs among cattle: by this means does He multiply you: there is nothing
whatever like unto Him and Her is the One that hears and sees (all things.) (Qur'an
42:11))
2. Both genders are recipients of the "divine breath" since they are created with the
same human and spiritual nature (nafsin-waahidah):
But He fashioned him in due proportion and breathed into him something of His spirit.
And He gave you (the faculties of) hearing and sight and feeling (and understanding):
little thanks to you give (Qur'an 15:29)
3. Both genders are dignified and are trustees of Allah on earth.
We have honored the children of Adam, provided them with transport on land and sea;
given them for sustenance things good and pure; and conferred on them special favors
above a great part of Our Creation. (Qur'an 17:70)
Behold your Lord said to the angels: "I will create a vicegerent on earth." They said
"Will you place therein one who will make mischief therein and shed blood? Whilst we
do celebrate Your praises and glorify Your holy (name)?" He said: "I know what you
do not." (Qur'an 2:30)
4. According to the Qur'an, woman is not blamed for the "fall of man." Pregnancy and
childbirth are not seen as punishments for "eating from the forbidden tree." On the
contrary, the Qur'an considers them to be grounds for love and respect due to mothers.
In narrating the story of Adam and Eve, the Qur'an frequently refers to both of
them, never singling out Eve for the blame:
O Adam! Dwell you and your wife in the garden and enjoy (its good things) as you
[both] wish: but approach not this tree or you [both] run into harm and transgression.
Then began Satan to whisper suggestions to them bringing openly before their minds all
their shame that was hidden from them (before): he said "Your Lord only forbade you
this tree lest you [both] should become angels or such beings as live forever." And he
swore to them both that he was their sincere adviser. So by deceit he brought about
their fall: when they tasted of the tree their shame became manifest to them and they
began to sew together the leaves of the garden over their bodies. And their Lord called
unto them: "Did I not forbid you that tree and tell you that Satan was an avowed enemy
unto you?" They said: "Our Lord! We have wronged our own souls: if you forgive us
not and bestow not upon us Your mercy we shall certainly be lost." (Allah) said: "Get
you [both] down with enmity between yourselves. On earth will be your dwelling-place
and your means of livelihood for a time." He said: "Therein shall you [both] live and
therein shall you [both] die; and from it shall you [both] be taken out (at last)." O you
children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover your shame as well as
to be an adornment to you but the raiment of righteousness that is the best. Such are
among the signs of Allah that they may receive admonition! O you children of Adam!
Let not Satan seduce you in the same manner as he got your parents out of the garden
stripping them of their raiment to expose their shame: for he and his tribe watch you
from a position where you cannot see them: We made the evil ones friends (only) to
those without faith. (Qur'an 7:19-27)
On the question of pregnancy and childbirth, the Qur'an states:
And We have enjoined on the person (to be good) to his/her parents: in travail upon
travail did his/her mother bear his/her and in years twain was his/her weaning: (hear
the command) "Show gratitude to Me and to your parents: to Me is (your final) Goal.
(Qur'an 31:14)
We have enjoined on the person kindness to his/her parents: in pain did his/her mother
bear him/her and in paid did she give him/her birth. The carrying of the (child) to
his/her weaning is ( a period of) thirty months. At length when he/she reaches the age
of full strength and attains forty years he/she says "O my Lord! Grant me that I may be
grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed upon me and upon both my parents
and that I may work righteousness such as You may approve; and be gracious to me in
my issue.Truly have I turned to You and truly do I bow (to You) in Islam
[submission]." (Qur'an 46:15)
5. Men and women have the same religious and moral duties and responsibilities. They
both face the consequences of their deeds:
And their Lord has accepted of them and answered them: "Never will I suffer to be los
the work of any of you be it male or female: you are members of one another ..."
(Qur'an 3:195)
If any do deeds of righteousness be they male or female and have faith they will enter
paradise and not the least injustice will be done to them. (Qur'an 4:124)
For Muslim men and women and for believing men and women, for devout men and
women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient and constant,
for men and women who humble themselves, for men and women who give in charity,
for men and women who fast (and deny themselves), for men and women who guard
their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allah's praise, for them has
Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward. (Qur'an 33:35)
One Day shall you see the believing men and the believing women how their Light runs
forward before them and by their right hands: (their greeting will be): "Good news for
you this Day! Gardens beneath which flow rivers! To dwell therein for ever! This is
indeed the highest Achievement!" (Qur'an 57:12)
6. Nowhere dow the Qur'an state that one gender is superior to the other. Some
mistakenly translate "qiwamah" or responsibility for the family as superiority. The
Qur'an makes it clear that the sole basis for superiority of any person over another is
piety and righteousness not gender, color, or nationality:
O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female and made you
into nations and tribes that you may know each other. Verily the most honored of you
in the sight of Allah is (one who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full
knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things). (Qur'an 49:13)
7. The absence of women as prophets or "Messengers of Allah" in prophetic history
is due to the demands and physical suffering associated with the role of messengers and
prophets and not because of any spiritual inferiority.
III. The Economic Aspect
1. The Islamic Shariiah recognizes the full property rights of women before and after
marriage. A married woman may keep her maiden name.
2. Greater financial security is assured for women. They are entitled to receive marital
gifts, to keep present and future properties and income for their own security. No
married woman is required to spend a penny from her property and income on the
household. She is entitled to full financial support during marriage and during the
waiting period ('iddah) in case of divorce. She is also entitled to child support.
Generally, a Muslim woman is guaranteed support in all stages of her life, as a
daughter, wife, mother, or sister. These additional advantages of women over men are
somewhat balanced by the provisions of the inheritance which allow the male, in most
cases, to inherit twice as much as the female. This means that the male inherits more
but is responsible financially for other females: daughters, wives, mother, and sister,
while the female (i.e., a wife) inherits less but can keep it all for investment and
financial security without any legal obligation so spend any part of it even for her own
sustenance (food, clothing, housing, medication, etc.).
IV. The Social Aspect
First: As a Daughter
1. The Qur'an effectively ended the cruel pre-Islamic practice of female infanticide
(wa'd):
When the female (infant) buried alive is questioned for what crime she was killed.
(Qur'an 81-8-9)
2. The Qur'an went further to rebuke the unwelcoming attitudes among some parents
upon hearing the news of the birth of a baby girl, instead of a baby boy:
When news is brought to one of them of (the birth of) a female (child) his face darkens
and he is filled with inward grief! With shame does he hide himself from his people
because of the bad news he has had! Shall he retain her on (sufferance and) contempt or
bury her in the dust? Ah! what an evil (choice) they decide on! (Qur'an 16:58-59)
3. Parents are duty bound to support and show kindness and justice to their daughters.
Prophet Muhammad said:
"Whosoever has a daughter and he does not bury her alive, does not insult her, and does
not favor his son over her, Allah will enter him into Paradise." [Ahmad]
"Whosoever supports two daughters til they mature, he and I will come in the day of
judgment as this (and he pointed with his two fingers held together)." [Ahmad]
4. Education is not only a right but also a responsibility of all males and females.
Prophet Muhammad said:
"Seeking knowledge is mandatory for every Muslim ("Muslim" is used here in the
generic meaning which includes both males and females).
Second: As a Wife
1. Marriage in Islam is based on mutual peace, love, and compassion, not just the
satisfaction of man's needs:
And among His Signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves that you
may well in tranquillity with them and He has put live and mercy between your
(hearts); verily in that are signs for those who reflect. (Qur'an 30:21)
(He is) the Creator of the heavens and the earth: He has made for you pairs from among
yourselves and pairs among cattle: by this means does He multiply you: there is nothing
whatever like unto Him and He is the One that hears and sees (all things). (Qur'an
42:11)
2. The female has the right to accept or reject marriage proposals. Her consent is
prerequisite to the validity of the marital contract according to the Prophet's teaching.
It follows that if by "arranged marriage" is meant marrying the girl without her
consent, then such a marriage is nullifiable is she so wished.
"Ibn Abbas reported that a girl came to the Messenger of God, Muhammad, and she
reported that her father had forced her to marry without her consent. The Messenger of
God gave her the choice ... (between accepting the marriage or invalidating it)."
(Ahmad, Hadeeth no. 2469). In another version, the girl said: "Actually I accept this
marriage but I wanted to let women know that parents have no right to force a husband
on them." [Ibn Majah]
3. The husband is responsible for the maintenance, protection, and overall headship of
the family (qiwamah) within the framework of consultation and kindness. The mutual
dependency and complementary of the roles of males and females does not mean
"subservience" by either party to the other. Prophet Muhammad helped in household
chores in spite of his busy schedule.
The mothers shall give suck to their offspring for two whole years if the father desires
to complete the term. But he shall bear the cost of their food and clothing on equitable
terms. No soul shall have a burden laid on it greater than it can bear. No mother shall
be treated unfairly on account of her child nor father on account of his child. An heir
shall be chargeable in the same way if they both decide on weaning by mutual consent
and after due consultation there is no blame on them. If you decide on a foster-mother
for your offspring there is no blame on you provided you pay (the mother) what you
offered on equitable terms. But fear Allah and know that Allah sees well what you do.
(Qur'an 2:233)
The Qur'an urges husbands to be kind and considerate to heir wives even if they do not
like them.
O you who believe! You are forbidden to inherit women against their will. Nor should
you treat them with harshness that you may take away part of the marital gift you have
given them except where they have been guilty of open lewdness; on the contrary live
with them on a footing of kindness and equity. If you take a dislike to them it may be
that you dislike a thing and Allah brings about though it a great deal of good. (Qur'an
4:19)
Prophet Muhammad taught:
" I command you to be kind to women ..."
"The best of you is the best to his family (wife) ..."
Marital disputes are to be handled privately between the parties whenever possible,
in steps (without excesses or cruelty). If disputes are not resolved then family mediation
can be resorted to.
Divorce is seen as the last resort, which is permissible but not encouraged. Under no
circumstances does the Qur'an encourage, allow or condone family violence or physical
abuse and cruelty. The maximum allowed in extreme cases is a gentle tap that does not
even leave a mark on the body while saving the marriage from collapsing.
5. Forms of marriage dissolution include mutual agreement, the husband's initiative, the
wife's initiative (if part of her marital contract, court decision on the wife's initiative
(for a cause), and the wife's initiative without a "cause" provided that she returns the
marital gift to her husband (khul' [divestiture]).
6. Priority for custody of young children (up to the age of about seven) is given to the
mother. A child later chooses between his mother and father (for custody purposes).
Custody questions are to be settled in a manner that balances the interests of both
parents and well-being of the child
Question of Polygyny
(Polygamy)
1. One of the common myths is to associate polygyny with Islam as if it were
introduced by Islam or is the norm according to its teachings. While no text in the
Qur'an or Sunnah states that either monogamy or polygyny is the norm, demographic
data indicates that monogamy is the norm and polygyny is the exception. In almost all
countries and on the global level the numbers of men and women are almost even, with
women's numbers slightly more than men.
As such, it is a practical impossibility to regard polygyny as the norm since it assumes
a demographic structure of at least two thirds females, and one third males (or 80
percent females and 20 percent males if four wives per male is the norm!). No Islamic
"norm" is based on an impossible assumption.
2. Like many peoples and religions, however, Islam did not out-law polygyny but
regulated it and restricted it. It is neither required nor encouraged, but simply
permitted and not outlawed. Edward Westermarck gives numerous examples of the
sanctioning of polygyny among Jews, Christians, and others.
3. The only passage in the Qur'an (4:3) which explicitly mentioned polygyny and
restricted its practice in terms of the number of wives permitted and the requirement of
justice between them was revealed after the Battle of Uhud in which dozens of Muslims
were martyred leaving behind widows and orphans. This seems to indicate that the
intent of its continued permissibility is to deal with individual and collective
contingencies that may arise from time to time (i.e., imbalances between the number of
males and females created by wars). This provides a moral, practical, and humane
solution to the problems of widows and orphans who are likely to be more vulnerable
in the absence of a husband/father figure to look after their needs: financial,
companions, proper rearing, and other needs.
If you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with the orphans marry women of
your choice two or three or four; but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly
(with them) then only one ... (Qur'an 4:3)
4. All parties involved have options: to reject marriage proposals as in the case of a
proposed second wife or to seek divorce or khul' (divestiture) as in the case of a present
wife who cannot accept to live with a polygynous husband.
While the Qur'an allowed polygyny, it did not allow polyandry (multiple husbands of
the same woman). Anthropologically speaking, polyandry is quite rare. Its practice
raises thorny problems related to the lineal identity of children, and incompatibility of
polyandry with feminine nature.
Third: As a Mother
1. Kindness to parents (especially mothers) is next to worship of Allah:
Your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him and that you be kind to parents.
Whether one or both of them attain old age in you life say not to them a word of
contempt nor repel them but address them in terms of honor. (Qur'an 17:23)
And We have enjoined on the human (to be good) to his/her parents: in travail upon
travail did his/her mother bear him/her and in years twain was his/her waning: (hear
the command) "Show gratitude to Me and to your parents: to Me is (your final)
destiny." (Qur'an 31:14)
2. Mothers are accorded a special place of honor in Hadeeth too:
A man came to the Prophet Muhammad asking: O Messenger of Allah, who among the
people is the most worthy of my good companionship? The Prophet said, your mother.
The man said then who is next: the Prophet said, Your mother. The man further asked,
Then who is next? Only then did the Prophet say, Your father. (al Bukhari)
Fourth: As a Sister in Faith (Generally)
1. According to the Prophet Muhammad's saying:
"Women are but sisters (or the other half) of men (shaqa'iq).
2. Prophet Muhammad taught kindness, care, and respect of women in general:
"I commend you to be kind to women"
Fifth: Issue of Modesty and Social Interaction
1. There exists, among Muslims a big gap between the ideal of the real. Cultural
practices on both extremes do exist. Some Muslims emulate non-Islamic cultures and
adopt the modes of dress, unrestricted mixing and behavior resulting in corrupting
influences of Muslims and endangering the family's integrity and strength. On the other
hand, in some Muslim cultural undue and excessive restrictions is not seclusion are
believed to be the ideal. Both extremes seem to contradict the normative teachings of
Islam and are not consistent with the virtuous yet participative nature of the society at
the time of the Prophet Muhammad.
2. Parameters of proper modesty for males and females (dress and behavior) are based
on revelatory sources (the Qur'an and authentic Sunnah) and as such are seen by
believing men and women as divinely-based guidelines with legitimate aims, and divine
wisdom behind them. They are not male-imposed or socially imposed restrictions.
3. The notion of near total seclusion of women is alien to the prophetic period.
Interpretation problems in justifying seclusion reflect, in part, cultural influences and
circumstances in different Muslim countries.
V. The Legal/Political Aspect
1. Both genders are entitled to equality before the law and courts of law. Justice is
genderless.
Most references to testimony (witness) in the Qur'an do not make any reference to
gender. Some references fully equate the testimony of males and female.
And for those who launch a charge against their spouses and have (in support) no
evidence but their own their solitary evidence (can be received) if they bear witness
four times (with an oath) by Allah that they are solemnly telling the truth; And the fifth
(oath) (should be) that they solemnly invoke the curse of Allah on themselves if they tell
a life. But it would avert the punishment from the wife is she bears witness four times
(with an oath) by Allah that (her husband) is telling a lie; And the fifth (oath) should be
that she solemnly invokes the wrath of Allah on herself is (her accuser) is telling the
truth. (Qur'an 24:6-9)
One reference in the Qur'an distinguishes between the witness of a male and a female. It
is useful to quote this reference and explain it in its own context and in the context of
other references to testimony in the Qur'an.
O you who believe! When you deal with each other in transactions involving future
obligations in a fixed period of time reduce them to writing. Let a scribe write down
faithfully as between the parties: let not the scribe refuse to write as Allah has taught
him so let him write. Let him who incurs the liability dictate but let him fear his Lord
Allah and not diminish aught of what he owes. If the party liable is mentally deficient
or weak or unable himself to dictate let his guardian dictate faithfully. And get two
witnesses out of your own men
and if there are not two men then a man and two women such as you choose for
witnesses so that if one of them errs the other can remind her. The witnesses should not
refuse when they are called on (for evidence). Disdain not to reduce to writing (your
contract) for a future period whether it be small or big: it is just in the sight of Allah
more suitable as evidence and more convenient to prevent doubts among yourselves; but
if it be a transaction which you carry out on the spot among yourselves there is no
blame on you if you reduce it not to writing. But take witnesses whenever you make a
commercial contract; and let neither scribe nor witness suffer harm. If you do (such
harm) it would be wickedness in you. So fear Allah; for it is Allah that teaches you.
And Allah is well acquainted with all things. (Qur'an 2:282)
A few comments on this text are essential in order to prevent common
misinterpretations:
a) It cannot be used as an argument that there is a general rule in the Qur'an that the
worth of a female's witness is only half the male's. This presumed "rule" is voided by
the earlier reference (24:6-9) which explicitly equates the testimony of both genders in
the issue at hand.
b) The context of this passage (ayah) relates to the testimony on financial transactions
which are often complex and laden with business jargon. The passage does not make a
blanket generalization which would otherwise contradict 24:6-9 cited earlier.
c) The reason for variations in the number of male and female witnesses required is
given in the same passage. No reference was made to the inferiority or superiority of
one gender's witness or the other's. The only reason given is to corroborate the
female's witness and prevent unintended errors in the perception of the business deal.
The Arabic term used in this passage (tadhilla) means literally "loses the way," "gets
confused or errs." But are females the only gender that may err and need corroboration
of their testimony. Definitely not, and this is why the general rule of testimony in
Islamic law is to have two witnesses even if they are both males. This leaves us with
only one reasonable interpretation that in an ideal Islamic society as envisioned by
Islamic teachings the female members will give priority to their feminine functions as
wives, mothers, and pioneers of charitable works. This emphasis, while making them
more experienced in the inner function of the family
and social life, may not give them enough exposure and experience to business
transactions and terminology, as such a typical Muslim woman in a truly Islamic society
will not normally be present when business dealings are negotiated and if may present
may not fully understand the dealings. In such a case, corroboration by two women
witnesses helps them remind one another and as such give an accurate account of what
happened.
d) It is useful to remember that it is the duty of a fair judge, in a particular case, to
evaluate the credibility, knowledge and experience of any witness and the specific
circumstances of the case at hand.
2. The general rule in social and political life is participation and collaboration of males
and female in public affairs:
The believers, men and women, are protectors one of another; they enjoin what is just
and forbid what is evil: they observe regular prayers, practice regular charity, and obey
Allah and His apostle. On them will Allah pour His mercy: for Allah is Exalted in
power, Wise. (Qur'an 9:71)
3. Now there is sufficient historical evidence of participation by Muslim women in the
choice of rulers, in public issues, in lawmaking, in administrative positions, in
scholarship and teaching, and even in the battlefield. Such involvement in social and
political affairs was done without losing sight of the complementary priorities of both
genders and without violating Islamic guidelines of modesty and virtue.
4. There is no text in the Qur'an or the Sunnah that precludes women from any position
of leadership, except in leading prayer due to the format of prayer as explained earlier
and the headship of state (based on the common and reasonable interpretation of
Hadeeth).
The head of state in Islam is not a ceremonial head. He leads public prayers in some
occasions, constantly travels and negotiates with officials of other states (who are mostly
males). He may be involved in confidential meetings with them. Such heavy
involvement and its necessary format may not be consistent with Islamic guidelines
related to the interaction between the genders and the priority of feminine functions and
their value to society. Furthermore, the conceptual and philosophical background of the
critics of this limited exclusion is that of individualism, ego satisfaction, and the
rejection of the validity of divine guidance in favor of other man-made philosophies,
values, or "ism." The ultimate objective of a Muslim man or woman is to selflessly
serve Allah and the ummah in whatever appropriate capacity.
Conclusion:
1. Textual injunctions on gender equity and the prophetic model are sometimes
disregarded by some if not most Muslims individually and collectively. Revision of
practices (not divine injunctions) is needed. It is not the revelatory Qur'an and the
Sunnah that need any editing or revision. What needs to be reexamined are fallible
human interpretations and practices.
2. Diverse practice in Muslim countries often reflect cultural influences (local or
foreign), more so than the letter or spirit of the Shariiah.
3. Fortunately, there is an emerging trend for the betterment of our understanding of
gender equity, based on the Qur'an and Hadeeth, not on alien and imported un-Islamic
or non-Islamic values and not on the basis of the existing oppressive and unjust status
quo in many parts of the Muslim world.
Jamal A. Badawi, Ph.D.
I. Introduction & Methodology
When dealing with the Islamic perspective of any topic, there should be a clear
distinction between the normative teachings of Islam and the diverse cultural practices
among Muslims, which may or may not be consistent with them. The focus of this paper
is the normative teachings of Islam as the criteria to judge Muslim practices and
evaluate their compliance with Islam. In identifying what is "Islamic," it is necessary to
make a distinction between the primary sources of Islam (the Qur'an and the Sunnah)
and legal opinions of scholars on specific issues, which may vary and be influenced by
their times, circumstances, and cultures. Such opinions and verdicts do not enjoy the
infallibility accorded to the primary and revelatory sources. Furthermore,
interpretation of the primary sources should consider, among other things:
(a) The context of any text in the Qur'an and the Sunnah. This includes the general
context of Islam, its teachings, its world view, and the context of the surah and section
thereof.
(b) The occasion of the revelation, which may shed light on its meanings,
(c) The role of the Sunnah in explaining and defining the meaning of the Qur'anic text.
This paper is a brief review of the position and role of woman in society from an
Islamic perspective. The topic is divided into spiritual, economic, social, and political
aspects.
II. The Spiritual Aspect
1. According to the Qur'an, men and women have the same spiritual human nature:
O mankind: Reverence your Guardian-Lord Who created you from a single person
created of like nature his mate and from them twain scattered (like seeds) countless men
and women; reverence Allah through Whom you demand your mutual (rights) and
(reverence) the wombs (that bore you): for Allah ever watches over you. (Qur'an 4:1)
It is He who created you from a single person and made his mate of like nature in order
that he might dwell with her (in love). When they are united she bears a light burden
and carries it about (unnoticed). When she grows heavy they both pray to Allah their
Lord (saying): "If You give us a goodly child we vow we shall (ever) be grateful."
(Qur'an 7:189)
(He is) the Creator of the heavens and the earth: He has made for you pairs from among
yourselves and pairs among cattle: by this means does He multiply you: there is nothing
whatever like unto Him and Her is the One that hears and sees (all things.) (Qur'an
42:11))
2. Both genders are recipients of the "divine breath" since they are created with the
same human and spiritual nature (nafsin-waahidah):
But He fashioned him in due proportion and breathed into him something of His spirit.
And He gave you (the faculties of) hearing and sight and feeling (and understanding):
little thanks to you give (Qur'an 15:29)
3. Both genders are dignified and are trustees of Allah on earth.
We have honored the children of Adam, provided them with transport on land and sea;
given them for sustenance things good and pure; and conferred on them special favors
above a great part of Our Creation. (Qur'an 17:70)
Behold your Lord said to the angels: "I will create a vicegerent on earth." They said
"Will you place therein one who will make mischief therein and shed blood? Whilst we
do celebrate Your praises and glorify Your holy (name)?" He said: "I know what you
do not." (Qur'an 2:30)
4. According to the Qur'an, woman is not blamed for the "fall of man." Pregnancy and
childbirth are not seen as punishments for "eating from the forbidden tree." On the
contrary, the Qur'an considers them to be grounds for love and respect due to mothers.
In narrating the story of Adam and Eve, the Qur'an frequently refers to both of
them, never singling out Eve for the blame:
O Adam! Dwell you and your wife in the garden and enjoy (its good things) as you
[both] wish: but approach not this tree or you [both] run into harm and transgression.
Then began Satan to whisper suggestions to them bringing openly before their minds all
their shame that was hidden from them (before): he said "Your Lord only forbade you
this tree lest you [both] should become angels or such beings as live forever." And he
swore to them both that he was their sincere adviser. So by deceit he brought about
their fall: when they tasted of the tree their shame became manifest to them and they
began to sew together the leaves of the garden over their bodies. And their Lord called
unto them: "Did I not forbid you that tree and tell you that Satan was an avowed enemy
unto you?" They said: "Our Lord! We have wronged our own souls: if you forgive us
not and bestow not upon us Your mercy we shall certainly be lost." (Allah) said: "Get
you [both] down with enmity between yourselves. On earth will be your dwelling-place
and your means of livelihood for a time." He said: "Therein shall you [both] live and
therein shall you [both] die; and from it shall you [both] be taken out (at last)." O you
children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover your shame as well as
to be an adornment to you but the raiment of righteousness that is the best. Such are
among the signs of Allah that they may receive admonition! O you children of Adam!
Let not Satan seduce you in the same manner as he got your parents out of the garden
stripping them of their raiment to expose their shame: for he and his tribe watch you
from a position where you cannot see them: We made the evil ones friends (only) to
those without faith. (Qur'an 7:19-27)
On the question of pregnancy and childbirth, the Qur'an states:
And We have enjoined on the person (to be good) to his/her parents: in travail upon
travail did his/her mother bear his/her and in years twain was his/her weaning: (hear
the command) "Show gratitude to Me and to your parents: to Me is (your final) Goal.
(Qur'an 31:14)
We have enjoined on the person kindness to his/her parents: in pain did his/her mother
bear him/her and in paid did she give him/her birth. The carrying of the (child) to
his/her weaning is ( a period of) thirty months. At length when he/she reaches the age
of full strength and attains forty years he/she says "O my Lord! Grant me that I may be
grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed upon me and upon both my parents
and that I may work righteousness such as You may approve; and be gracious to me in
my issue.Truly have I turned to You and truly do I bow (to You) in Islam
[submission]." (Qur'an 46:15)
5. Men and women have the same religious and moral duties and responsibilities. They
both face the consequences of their deeds:
And their Lord has accepted of them and answered them: "Never will I suffer to be los
the work of any of you be it male or female: you are members of one another ..."
(Qur'an 3:195)
If any do deeds of righteousness be they male or female and have faith they will enter
paradise and not the least injustice will be done to them. (Qur'an 4:124)
For Muslim men and women and for believing men and women, for devout men and
women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient and constant,
for men and women who humble themselves, for men and women who give in charity,
for men and women who fast (and deny themselves), for men and women who guard
their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allah's praise, for them has
Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward. (Qur'an 33:35)
One Day shall you see the believing men and the believing women how their Light runs
forward before them and by their right hands: (their greeting will be): "Good news for
you this Day! Gardens beneath which flow rivers! To dwell therein for ever! This is
indeed the highest Achievement!" (Qur'an 57:12)
6. Nowhere dow the Qur'an state that one gender is superior to the other. Some
mistakenly translate "qiwamah" or responsibility for the family as superiority. The
Qur'an makes it clear that the sole basis for superiority of any person over another is
piety and righteousness not gender, color, or nationality:
O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female and made you
into nations and tribes that you may know each other. Verily the most honored of you
in the sight of Allah is (one who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full
knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things). (Qur'an 49:13)
7. The absence of women as prophets or "Messengers of Allah" in prophetic history
is due to the demands and physical suffering associated with the role of messengers and
prophets and not because of any spiritual inferiority.
III. The Economic Aspect
1. The Islamic Shariiah recognizes the full property rights of women before and after
marriage. A married woman may keep her maiden name.
2. Greater financial security is assured for women. They are entitled to receive marital
gifts, to keep present and future properties and income for their own security. No
married woman is required to spend a penny from her property and income on the
household. She is entitled to full financial support during marriage and during the
waiting period ('iddah) in case of divorce. She is also entitled to child support.
Generally, a Muslim woman is guaranteed support in all stages of her life, as a
daughter, wife, mother, or sister. These additional advantages of women over men are
somewhat balanced by the provisions of the inheritance which allow the male, in most
cases, to inherit twice as much as the female. This means that the male inherits more
but is responsible financially for other females: daughters, wives, mother, and sister,
while the female (i.e., a wife) inherits less but can keep it all for investment and
financial security without any legal obligation so spend any part of it even for her own
sustenance (food, clothing, housing, medication, etc.).
IV. The Social Aspect
First: As a Daughter
1. The Qur'an effectively ended the cruel pre-Islamic practice of female infanticide
(wa'd):
When the female (infant) buried alive is questioned for what crime she was killed.
(Qur'an 81-8-9)
2. The Qur'an went further to rebuke the unwelcoming attitudes among some parents
upon hearing the news of the birth of a baby girl, instead of a baby boy:
When news is brought to one of them of (the birth of) a female (child) his face darkens
and he is filled with inward grief! With shame does he hide himself from his people
because of the bad news he has had! Shall he retain her on (sufferance and) contempt or
bury her in the dust? Ah! what an evil (choice) they decide on! (Qur'an 16:58-59)
3. Parents are duty bound to support and show kindness and justice to their daughters.
Prophet Muhammad said:
"Whosoever has a daughter and he does not bury her alive, does not insult her, and does
not favor his son over her, Allah will enter him into Paradise." [Ahmad]
"Whosoever supports two daughters til they mature, he and I will come in the day of
judgment as this (and he pointed with his two fingers held together)." [Ahmad]
4. Education is not only a right but also a responsibility of all males and females.
Prophet Muhammad said:
"Seeking knowledge is mandatory for every Muslim ("Muslim" is used here in the
generic meaning which includes both males and females).
Second: As a Wife
1. Marriage in Islam is based on mutual peace, love, and compassion, not just the
satisfaction of man's needs:
And among His Signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves that you
may well in tranquillity with them and He has put live and mercy between your
(hearts); verily in that are signs for those who reflect. (Qur'an 30:21)
(He is) the Creator of the heavens and the earth: He has made for you pairs from among
yourselves and pairs among cattle: by this means does He multiply you: there is nothing
whatever like unto Him and He is the One that hears and sees (all things). (Qur'an
42:11)
2. The female has the right to accept or reject marriage proposals. Her consent is
prerequisite to the validity of the marital contract according to the Prophet's teaching.
It follows that if by "arranged marriage" is meant marrying the girl without her
consent, then such a marriage is nullifiable is she so wished.
"Ibn Abbas reported that a girl came to the Messenger of God, Muhammad, and she
reported that her father had forced her to marry without her consent. The Messenger of
God gave her the choice ... (between accepting the marriage or invalidating it)."
(Ahmad, Hadeeth no. 2469). In another version, the girl said: "Actually I accept this
marriage but I wanted to let women know that parents have no right to force a husband
on them." [Ibn Majah]
3. The husband is responsible for the maintenance, protection, and overall headship of
the family (qiwamah) within the framework of consultation and kindness. The mutual
dependency and complementary of the roles of males and females does not mean
"subservience" by either party to the other. Prophet Muhammad helped in household
chores in spite of his busy schedule.
The mothers shall give suck to their offspring for two whole years if the father desires
to complete the term. But he shall bear the cost of their food and clothing on equitable
terms. No soul shall have a burden laid on it greater than it can bear. No mother shall
be treated unfairly on account of her child nor father on account of his child. An heir
shall be chargeable in the same way if they both decide on weaning by mutual consent
and after due consultation there is no blame on them. If you decide on a foster-mother
for your offspring there is no blame on you provided you pay (the mother) what you
offered on equitable terms. But fear Allah and know that Allah sees well what you do.
(Qur'an 2:233)
The Qur'an urges husbands to be kind and considerate to heir wives even if they do not
like them.
O you who believe! You are forbidden to inherit women against their will. Nor should
you treat them with harshness that you may take away part of the marital gift you have
given them except where they have been guilty of open lewdness; on the contrary live
with them on a footing of kindness and equity. If you take a dislike to them it may be
that you dislike a thing and Allah brings about though it a great deal of good. (Qur'an
4:19)
Prophet Muhammad taught:
" I command you to be kind to women ..."
"The best of you is the best to his family (wife) ..."
Marital disputes are to be handled privately between the parties whenever possible,
in steps (without excesses or cruelty). If disputes are not resolved then family mediation
can be resorted to.
Divorce is seen as the last resort, which is permissible but not encouraged. Under no
circumstances does the Qur'an encourage, allow or condone family violence or physical
abuse and cruelty. The maximum allowed in extreme cases is a gentle tap that does not
even leave a mark on the body while saving the marriage from collapsing.
5. Forms of marriage dissolution include mutual agreement, the husband's initiative, the
wife's initiative (if part of her marital contract, court decision on the wife's initiative
(for a cause), and the wife's initiative without a "cause" provided that she returns the
marital gift to her husband (khul' [divestiture]).
6. Priority for custody of young children (up to the age of about seven) is given to the
mother. A child later chooses between his mother and father (for custody purposes).
Custody questions are to be settled in a manner that balances the interests of both
parents and well-being of the child
Question of Polygyny
(Polygamy)
1. One of the common myths is to associate polygyny with Islam as if it were
introduced by Islam or is the norm according to its teachings. While no text in the
Qur'an or Sunnah states that either monogamy or polygyny is the norm, demographic
data indicates that monogamy is the norm and polygyny is the exception. In almost all
countries and on the global level the numbers of men and women are almost even, with
women's numbers slightly more than men.
As such, it is a practical impossibility to regard polygyny as the norm since it assumes
a demographic structure of at least two thirds females, and one third males (or 80
percent females and 20 percent males if four wives per male is the norm!). No Islamic
"norm" is based on an impossible assumption.
2. Like many peoples and religions, however, Islam did not out-law polygyny but
regulated it and restricted it. It is neither required nor encouraged, but simply
permitted and not outlawed. Edward Westermarck gives numerous examples of the
sanctioning of polygyny among Jews, Christians, and others.
3. The only passage in the Qur'an (4:3) which explicitly mentioned polygyny and
restricted its practice in terms of the number of wives permitted and the requirement of
justice between them was revealed after the Battle of Uhud in which dozens of Muslims
were martyred leaving behind widows and orphans. This seems to indicate that the
intent of its continued permissibility is to deal with individual and collective
contingencies that may arise from time to time (i.e., imbalances between the number of
males and females created by wars). This provides a moral, practical, and humane
solution to the problems of widows and orphans who are likely to be more vulnerable
in the absence of a husband/father figure to look after their needs: financial,
companions, proper rearing, and other needs.
If you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with the orphans marry women of
your choice two or three or four; but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly
(with them) then only one ... (Qur'an 4:3)
4. All parties involved have options: to reject marriage proposals as in the case of a
proposed second wife or to seek divorce or khul' (divestiture) as in the case of a present
wife who cannot accept to live with a polygynous husband.
While the Qur'an allowed polygyny, it did not allow polyandry (multiple husbands of
the same woman). Anthropologically speaking, polyandry is quite rare. Its practice
raises thorny problems related to the lineal identity of children, and incompatibility of
polyandry with feminine nature.
Third: As a Mother
1. Kindness to parents (especially mothers) is next to worship of Allah:
Your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him and that you be kind to parents.
Whether one or both of them attain old age in you life say not to them a word of
contempt nor repel them but address them in terms of honor. (Qur'an 17:23)
And We have enjoined on the human (to be good) to his/her parents: in travail upon
travail did his/her mother bear him/her and in years twain was his/her waning: (hear
the command) "Show gratitude to Me and to your parents: to Me is (your final)
destiny." (Qur'an 31:14)
2. Mothers are accorded a special place of honor in Hadeeth too:
A man came to the Prophet Muhammad asking: O Messenger of Allah, who among the
people is the most worthy of my good companionship? The Prophet said, your mother.
The man said then who is next: the Prophet said, Your mother. The man further asked,
Then who is next? Only then did the Prophet say, Your father. (al Bukhari)
Fourth: As a Sister in Faith (Generally)
1. According to the Prophet Muhammad's saying:
"Women are but sisters (or the other half) of men (shaqa'iq).
2. Prophet Muhammad taught kindness, care, and respect of women in general:
"I commend you to be kind to women"
Fifth: Issue of Modesty and Social Interaction
1. There exists, among Muslims a big gap between the ideal of the real. Cultural
practices on both extremes do exist. Some Muslims emulate non-Islamic cultures and
adopt the modes of dress, unrestricted mixing and behavior resulting in corrupting
influences of Muslims and endangering the family's integrity and strength. On the other
hand, in some Muslim cultural undue and excessive restrictions is not seclusion are
believed to be the ideal. Both extremes seem to contradict the normative teachings of
Islam and are not consistent with the virtuous yet participative nature of the society at
the time of the Prophet Muhammad.
2. Parameters of proper modesty for males and females (dress and behavior) are based
on revelatory sources (the Qur'an and authentic Sunnah) and as such are seen by
believing men and women as divinely-based guidelines with legitimate aims, and divine
wisdom behind them. They are not male-imposed or socially imposed restrictions.
3. The notion of near total seclusion of women is alien to the prophetic period.
Interpretation problems in justifying seclusion reflect, in part, cultural influences and
circumstances in different Muslim countries.
V. The Legal/Political Aspect
1. Both genders are entitled to equality before the law and courts of law. Justice is
genderless.
Most references to testimony (witness) in the Qur'an do not make any reference to
gender. Some references fully equate the testimony of males and female.
And for those who launch a charge against their spouses and have (in support) no
evidence but their own their solitary evidence (can be received) if they bear witness
four times (with an oath) by Allah that they are solemnly telling the truth; And the fifth
(oath) (should be) that they solemnly invoke the curse of Allah on themselves if they tell
a life. But it would avert the punishment from the wife is she bears witness four times
(with an oath) by Allah that (her husband) is telling a lie; And the fifth (oath) should be
that she solemnly invokes the wrath of Allah on herself is (her accuser) is telling the
truth. (Qur'an 24:6-9)
One reference in the Qur'an distinguishes between the witness of a male and a female. It
is useful to quote this reference and explain it in its own context and in the context of
other references to testimony in the Qur'an.
O you who believe! When you deal with each other in transactions involving future
obligations in a fixed period of time reduce them to writing. Let a scribe write down
faithfully as between the parties: let not the scribe refuse to write as Allah has taught
him so let him write. Let him who incurs the liability dictate but let him fear his Lord
Allah and not diminish aught of what he owes. If the party liable is mentally deficient
or weak or unable himself to dictate let his guardian dictate faithfully. And get two
witnesses out of your own men
and if there are not two men then a man and two women such as you choose for
witnesses so that if one of them errs the other can remind her. The witnesses should not
refuse when they are called on (for evidence). Disdain not to reduce to writing (your
contract) for a future period whether it be small or big: it is just in the sight of Allah
more suitable as evidence and more convenient to prevent doubts among yourselves; but
if it be a transaction which you carry out on the spot among yourselves there is no
blame on you if you reduce it not to writing. But take witnesses whenever you make a
commercial contract; and let neither scribe nor witness suffer harm. If you do (such
harm) it would be wickedness in you. So fear Allah; for it is Allah that teaches you.
And Allah is well acquainted with all things. (Qur'an 2:282)
A few comments on this text are essential in order to prevent common
misinterpretations:
a) It cannot be used as an argument that there is a general rule in the Qur'an that the
worth of a female's witness is only half the male's. This presumed "rule" is voided by
the earlier reference (24:6-9) which explicitly equates the testimony of both genders in
the issue at hand.
b) The context of this passage (ayah) relates to the testimony on financial transactions
which are often complex and laden with business jargon. The passage does not make a
blanket generalization which would otherwise contradict 24:6-9 cited earlier.
c) The reason for variations in the number of male and female witnesses required is
given in the same passage. No reference was made to the inferiority or superiority of
one gender's witness or the other's. The only reason given is to corroborate the
female's witness and prevent unintended errors in the perception of the business deal.
The Arabic term used in this passage (tadhilla) means literally "loses the way," "gets
confused or errs." But are females the only gender that may err and need corroboration
of their testimony. Definitely not, and this is why the general rule of testimony in
Islamic law is to have two witnesses even if they are both males. This leaves us with
only one reasonable interpretation that in an ideal Islamic society as envisioned by
Islamic teachings the female members will give priority to their feminine functions as
wives, mothers, and pioneers of charitable works. This emphasis, while making them
more experienced in the inner function of the family
and social life, may not give them enough exposure and experience to business
transactions and terminology, as such a typical Muslim woman in a truly Islamic society
will not normally be present when business dealings are negotiated and if may present
may not fully understand the dealings. In such a case, corroboration by two women
witnesses helps them remind one another and as such give an accurate account of what
happened.
d) It is useful to remember that it is the duty of a fair judge, in a particular case, to
evaluate the credibility, knowledge and experience of any witness and the specific
circumstances of the case at hand.
2. The general rule in social and political life is participation and collaboration of males
and female in public affairs:
The believers, men and women, are protectors one of another; they enjoin what is just
and forbid what is evil: they observe regular prayers, practice regular charity, and obey
Allah and His apostle. On them will Allah pour His mercy: for Allah is Exalted in
power, Wise. (Qur'an 9:71)
3. Now there is sufficient historical evidence of participation by Muslim women in the
choice of rulers, in public issues, in lawmaking, in administrative positions, in
scholarship and teaching, and even in the battlefield. Such involvement in social and
political affairs was done without losing sight of the complementary priorities of both
genders and without violating Islamic guidelines of modesty and virtue.
4. There is no text in the Qur'an or the Sunnah that precludes women from any position
of leadership, except in leading prayer due to the format of prayer as explained earlier
and the headship of state (based on the common and reasonable interpretation of
Hadeeth).
The head of state in Islam is not a ceremonial head. He leads public prayers in some
occasions, constantly travels and negotiates with officials of other states (who are mostly
males). He may be involved in confidential meetings with them. Such heavy
involvement and its necessary format may not be consistent with Islamic guidelines
related to the interaction between the genders and the priority of feminine functions and
their value to society. Furthermore, the conceptual and philosophical background of the
critics of this limited exclusion is that of individualism, ego satisfaction, and the
rejection of the validity of divine guidance in favor of other man-made philosophies,
values, or "ism." The ultimate objective of a Muslim man or woman is to selflessly
serve Allah and the ummah in whatever appropriate capacity.
Conclusion:
1. Textual injunctions on gender equity and the prophetic model are sometimes
disregarded by some if not most Muslims individually and collectively. Revision of
practices (not divine injunctions) is needed. It is not the revelatory Qur'an and the
Sunnah that need any editing or revision. What needs to be reexamined are fallible
human interpretations and practices.
2. Diverse practice in Muslim countries often reflect cultural influences (local or
foreign), more so than the letter or spirit of the Shariiah.
3. Fortunately, there is an emerging trend for the betterment of our understanding of
gender equity, based on the Qur'an and Hadeeth, not on alien and imported un-Islamic
or non-Islamic values and not on the basis of the existing oppressive and unjust status
quo in many parts of the Muslim world.
Jamal A. Badawi, Ph.D.
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