Islam 102

Lesson 3: Quran and Human Rights

Rights and Honor of Women

The Quranic teachings have elevated the position of women to a status unknown to other religions. Before the advent of Islam, in Arabia, the status of women was equivalent to that of an animal. Female infanticide was a common practice. Sons treated the widows of their fathers as wives. There was no concept of a woman’s right to an inheritance. The advent of Islam raised the position of women in many ways. Quran says

“And they (women) have rights similar to those of men over them in kindness” (2:228)

A Muslim may not physically abuse a woman. She should be respected and honored by all under all circumstances. Quran believes that the chastity of every woman, whether she is a Muslim or a non-Muslim or whether she belongs to one’s own nation or is a foreigner, holds equal esteem and honor.

“Do not approach (the bounds) of adultery.” (17:32)

It is the historical truth that before Islam, women were not allowed to participate in social, religious or any other activities of life. Islam contributed to women’s participation in every aspect of life.

Muslim women on the battle field:

The Battle of Qadsiya was fought in the 14th year of Hijra. In this battle, Muslim women struggled alongside the men, even though the participation of women in any activities in those days was thought to be a dream. These women provided water, and carried the wounded soldiers with strong sticks tied with their clothes (Tabiri vol.6 pg 63). Additionally, in this battle, women dug graves for the dead and some performed the duties of store guards. Khalid bin Waleed’s (the great warrior of Islam) wife and daughters distinguished themselves in horsemanship. In this battle, a band of lady volunteers armed with sticks performed deeds of valor in fighting.

It is evident that Islam is a dynamic religion which emancipates woman and entitles her to the rights she deserves.

In the history of Islam, women can own property and conduct their business as Khadija (R), the wife of Prophet, did. Likewise, a Muslim woman is entitled to propose to a man for marriage like Khadija (R ). She can also refuse a proposal if she does not approve of it. On commencement of a marriage, she becomes the legal owner of Mehar (alimony) given by her husband. A marriage cannot be valid without alimony. Quran says,

“And give unto the women whom ye marry free gifts of their marriage portion”. (4:4)

A Muslim man is entitled to take four women in marriage, provided he could afford it and do justice among all. He must be fair and equitable in treating all of them. Islam, bearing a hallmark of a modern social system, incorporates divorce as a part of marital accord, which although considered an abominable and ghastly deed is still considered permissible in Islamic Shariah (Islamic code of law). Quran preaches men to act kindly towards their wives, even while parting ways (i.e. divorce). Quran teaches:

“The divorce is twice, after that, either you retain her on reasonable terms or release her with kindness. And it is not lawful for you (men) to take back (from your wives) any of your Mahr (bridal money given by the husband to his wife at the time of marriage) which you have given them, except when both parties fear that they would be unable to keep the limits ordained by Allâh (e.g. to deal with each other on a fair basis). Then if you fear that they would not be able to keep the limits ordained by Allâh, then there is no sin on either of them if she gives back (the Mahr or a part of it) for her Al-Khul' (divorce). These are the limits ordained by Allâh, so do not transgress them. And whoever transgresses the limits ordained by Allâh, then such are the Zâlimûn (wrong-doers, etc.).

Prostitution is strictly forbidden in Islam. It is considered to be a sin and one has to be accountable to Allah for earning unlawful sustenance through immoral activities. Quran says

“Force not your slave-girls to whoredom that ye may seek enjoyment of the life of the world, if they would preserve their chastity.” (24:33)

Women occupy a special place in Islam. Their modesty and chastity is protected like precious gems. In order to secure her, there are certain orders given by Quran which are not postulates of enslavement but ways to guard her. Thus, men and women do not mix socially in Islam, in order to protect their modesty. A Muslim woman is expected to avoid the company of a man who has no relation with her so as to avoid arousal of bestial desires because it is the saying of the Prophet Mohammad (P.B.U.H)

“when a man and woman meet in private, the third person between them is satan (devil).”

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