The role and status of women in Islam have often been misunderstood and misrepresented, both by those unfamiliar with Islam and sometimes within Muslim communities due to cultural practices. To truly appreciate the position of women in Islam, one must turn to its primary sources, the Quran and the Hadith, which emphasize dignity, rights, and equality.

Before the advent of Islam, women in many parts of Arabia were subjected to severe injustices. Female infanticide was rampant, and women were often treated as property with little to no rights. Islam revolutionized this mindset by bringing dignity and status to women and declaring them equal to men in the sight of Allah.

The Quran explicitly declares the spiritual equality of men and women. Allah says: “Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women, the believing men and believing women, the obedient men and obedient women, the truthful men and truthful women… Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward” (Quran 33:35).

This verse highlights that men and women are equally accountable for their actions and equally eligible for Allah’s mercy and reward.

In Islam, there are many rights that were given to women, for instance, right to education. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim” (Ibn Majah). This command applies to both men and women by emphasizing the importance of education for all. Many notable female scholars, such as Aisha bint Abu Bakr, played a vital role in preserving and teaching Islamic knowledge.

Right to work and financial independence is also instrumental in Islam. Women in Islam have the right to work, own property, and engage in business. Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, the Prophet’s wife, was a successful businesswoman. This sets a precedent for women’s economic independence.

Another key right embodied in women is the right to Inheritance. Islam introduced inheritance rights for women at a time when such rights were unheard of. The Quran states: “For men is a share of what the parents and close relatives leave, and for women is a share of what the parents and close relatives leave, be it little or much — an obligatory share” (Quran 4:7). 

Further to that, a woman has the right to choose her spouse and cannot be forced into marriage. Additionally, Islam grants women the right to seek divorce if their marriage becomes untenable.

Many of the injustices faced by women in some Muslim communities are rooted in cultural traditions, not Islam. Practices such as forced marriages, denial of education, and restrictions on mobility contradict Islamic teachings and should not be conflated with the faith itself.

Islam places women’s dignity and respect at the highest regard. It grants them rights and freedoms that were revolutionary for their time and remain relevant today. While cultural practices may sometimes obscure these teachings, the Quran and Hadith stand as timeless guides that ensure justice and equality for all women.