Women's Rights in Islam: Guidance from the Qur'an and the Prophet's Sunnah

Islamic teachings provide comprehensive guidelines on women's rights, emphasizing their dignity and equality. These rights are enshrined in the Qur'an and further elucidated by the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) Sunnah. Below, we explore the key rights afforded to women in Islam:

1. Right of Birth and Life

Islam unequivocally affirms the sanctity of life, including the life of women. The Qur'an condemns the pre-Islamic practice of female infanticide, stating: "And when the girl [who was] buried alive is asked for what sin she was killed" (Qur'an 8-9). This verse underscores the value of female life and prohibits any form of gender-based violence or discrimination.

2. Right to Family

Women have a pivotal role within the family structure. They are entitled to respect and honour as daughters, sisters, wives, and mothers. The Qur'an advocates for kind treatment and mutual respect within the family: "And we have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is in two years" (Qur'an 31:14). Additionally, the Prophet Muhammad emphasized the importance of treating women with kindness: "The best of you are those who are best to their wives" (Sunan Ibn Majah 1977).

3. Right to Religion and Worship

Women have the right to practice their religion and participate in acts of worship. They are encouraged to perform prayers, fast, give charity, and undertake the pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj). The Qur'an states: "Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while being a believer, We will surely cause him to live a good life" (Qur'an 16:97).

4. Right to Education

Islam highly values knowledge and education for both men and women. The Prophet Muhammad said: "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim" (Sunan Ibn Majah 224). Women are encouraged to pursue education in all fields, and the early Islamic history includes notable female scholars such as Aisha bint Abi Bakr and Fatimah al-Fihri, who founded the world's first university.

5. Right to Work and Property

Women can work and own property independently of their male relatives. The Qur'an explicitly states: "For men is a share of what they have earned, and for women is a share of what they have earned" (Qur'an 4:32). This includes the right to engage in business, employment, and other economic activities.

6. Right to Political and Social Participation

Islamic teachings allow women to participate in social and political life. Women were active participants in the early Islamic community, with examples like Aisha bint Abi Bakr, who played a significant role in politics and education. The Qur'an and Sunnah do not restrict women from holding positions of responsibility and contributing to societal development.

7. Right to Financial Security

Women are entitled to financial security and maintenance from their male guardians, such as fathers or husbands. The Qur'an mandates: "Men are the protectors and maintainers of women" (Qur'an 4:34). This provision ensures that women are supported financially, particularly when they are not working due to family responsibilities.

8. Right to Marriage and Divorce

Women have the right to choose their spouses and must give their consent to marriage. The Prophet Muhammad stated: "A previously married woman has more right to decide about herself [than her guardian], and a virgin must be asked for consent" (Sahih Muslim 1419). Women also have the right to seek divorce if the marriage becomes untenable, with the provision of Khula (initiated by the wife) and Talaq (initiated by the husband).

9. Inheritance Rights

Islamic inheritance laws ensure that women receive a share of the family estate. The Qur'an specifies the shares for both men and women, ensuring that women are not excluded: "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" (Qur'an 4:7).

Conclusion

Islamic teachings, derived from the Qur'an and the Prophet’s Sunnah, affirm a comprehensive set of rights for women. These rights encompass every aspect of life, ensuring women are treated with dignity, respect, and justice. While cultural practices may sometimes diverge from these principles, the core Islamic teachings provide a robust framework for the empowerment and protection of women's rights.