Men and women are of the same family and as such have similar rights and duties, and Allah promises them in glorious Qur’an:
“Never will I waste the worth of a worker among you, whether male or female, one of you being from the other”. (Al-Quran 3:195)
Thus, in Islamic tradition, a woman has an independent identity. She is a responsible being in her own right and carries the burden of her moral and spiritual obligations. Women have as much right to education as man do. Almost fourteen centuries ago, Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) declared that the pursuit of knowledge is incumbent on every Muslim, male or female. The declaration was very clear and was largely implemented by Muslims throughout history.
Islam elevated the position of women in society and treated them on equal footing with men, and in some cases, as a mother for instance, clearly gave precedence over men. Thus when a man asked Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W), “who is most entitled to be treated with best companionship by me”? Prophet (S.A.W) replied, “Your mother”. The man asked, who is next? The Prophet (S.A.W) said, “Your mother”. Again he asked, who is next? “Your mother”. Fourth time the Prophet (S.A.W) replied, “Your father”.
As daughters, women have a right to be just and equitable treatment from their parents. A woman has the right to reject or accept the marriage proposal and her consent is a pre-requisite to the validity of the marriage contract.
The sacred text of glorious Qur’an and the history of early Muslims bear witness to the fact that women are considered as vital to life as men.
Islam refuted the idea that Eve tempted Adam to disobey God, and this caused his downfall. The Qur’an says that they both disobeyed, and negates the idea that women are a source of evil.
It is thus clear that status of women in Islam is very high. Islam has granted them rights that match beautifully with their duties. Islam has established for women which suits their nature, give them full security and protects them against disgraceful circumstances and uncertain channels of life.
