Women in Islam have often been misunderstood, with widespread misconceptions suggesting that Muslim women are degraded, insulted, or oppressed. This is far from the truth. Islam grants women full rights as human beings, recognizing them as equal to men in humanity and spiritual worth.
This article explores the true status and role of women in Islam across different phases of life, highlighting their guaranteed rights and addressing their social, economic, financial, and political contributions within Islamic teachings.
The article concludes with a selection of Prophetic Sayings about women. This helps you, dear reader, to understand why most reverts to Islam in the West are women and why Islam is the fast-growing religion. Keep reading for more!
Status And Importance of Women in Islam
Islam honored women with a dignified and respected status. They are not considered a source of temptation or a burden on society. Also, Islam assigns great value to the roles women play throughout different stages of life—especially as mothers, wives, and daughters.
Eve’s Innocence of Original Temptation
Islam proved Eve’s innocence of tempting Adam to disobey God’s Command and being the cause of banishment from Paradise. Islam also refutes the myth that Eve was the origin of evil in the world, stating that it was Satan who tempted both Adam and Eve. So, Islam does not blame Eve alone for the First Sin.
Read more: The Original Sin In Islam – Who Sinned First?
1. Status of Daughters in Islam
Islam firmly prohibits infanticide and considers it a grave crime, equivalent to murder. The Glorious Quran strongly condemns the ancient practice of burying baby girls alive:
“And when the girl [who was] buried alive is asked. For what sin she was killed.”
—[Quran 81:8–9]
Islam also condemns societal shame associated with the birth of a girl:
“And when one of them is informed of [the birth of] a female, his face becomes dark, and he suppresses grief. He hides himself from the people because of the ill of which he has been informed. Should he keep it in humiliation or bury it in the ground? Unquestionably, evil is what they decide.”
Islam requires just and kind treatment toward girls, affirming that both females and males have equal rights to seek knowledge.
Read more: Is There A Reward For Muslim Fathers For Raising Daughters?
2. Status of Wives in Islam
In Islam, marriage is seen as a spiritual and emotional partnership that completes and supports both partners. It plays a vital role in maintaining emotional well-being and in the continuation of human life. The relationship is founded upon love, compassion, and tranquility, as illustrated in the Quran:
“And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He (Almighty God) placed between you affection and mercy.”
—[Quran 30:21]
Islam also provides women the right to initiate the end of a marriage through khulʿ, whereby a woman can unilaterally seek divorce by returning her dowry and waiving financial claims:
“…Then if you fear that they will not keep within the limits of Allah, then there is no blame upon either of them concerning that by which she ransoms herself…”
—[Quran 2:229]
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also approved of this right, as seen in the tradition of Thabit Ibn Qais. Even in cases where a marriage must end, Islam encourages a gracious and respectful separation:
“And when you divorce women and they have [nearly] fulfilled their term, either retain them according to acceptable terms or release them according to acceptable terms.”
—[Quran 2:231]
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3. Status of Mothers in Islam
Islam places the honor of mothers immediately after the worship of God. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes gratitude and care toward parents, especially the sacrifices made by mothers:
“And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness…”
—[Quran 31:14]
“And your Lord has decreed that you worship not except Him, and to parents, good treatment.”
—[Quran 17:23]
In a well-known Hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) highlighted the unmatched right of mothers:
“Who among the people is most deserving of a fine treatment from my hand?” He said: “Your mother.”
—[Sahih Hadith]
Thus, Islam granted women special status as mothers, daughters, and wives, affirming their dignity and disproving claims of oppression.
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Role of Women in Islam
Islam regards a woman’s role in society, particularly as a mother and a wife, as the most sacred and essential one. No maid or babysitter can ever replace a mother’s position in educating and nurturing a child into an upright, confident, and well-raised individual. This noble and critical role, which shapes future generations and societies, must never be seen as idleness or unproductivity. Islam also establishes a system for the family to help it fulfill its proper role in larger societies. It sets mutual rights between spouses: men provide for and are responsible for women, while women obey their husbands and are entrusted with the care of the household.
Moreover, in Islam, a woman’s menstruation and role in childbirth are not viewed as burdens or punishments. Instead, they are seen as part of her honored nature and noble function in life. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said to one of his companions:
“Stay with her (your mother), for Paradise is beneath her feet.”
—[Sahih: Sunan al-Nasā’ī 3104]
This Hadith demonstrates the true position of childbirth and highlights the dignified role of women in Islam.
Gender Roles In Islam
In Islam, men and women are seen as complementary to one another—not identical. While their roles may differ, they are considered spiritually equal in the sight of God. Islam recognizes the biological and functional differences between the sexes but emphasizes that these differences do not affect their worth or spiritual status.
On the spiritual level, men and women in Islam share the same religious duties and moral responsibilities. Both are required to perform the five daily prayers, observe fasting in Ramadan, give Zakat (charity), and perform Hajj (pilgrimage) if able. There is no distinction between the two in these acts of worship.
Every individual in Islam—male or female—is accountable for their own deeds. This is clearly stated in the Qur’an:
“And their Lord responded to them, ‘Never will I allow to be lost the work of [any] worker among you, whether male or female; you are of one another.’”
Moreover, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) affirmed this spiritual equality by saying:
“Women are the counterparts of men.”
[Sahih: Musnad Ahmad]
In summary, Islamic gender roles are based on complementarity, not inequality. While men and women may have different roles in family and society, they are equal in dignity, accountability, and reward in the eyes of God.
Read for more: What Does The Quran Teach About Men And Women At A Spiritual Level?
How Are Women Treated in Islam?
Islam urges its followers to treat women well. For example, the husband is instructed to treat his wife kindly. The following verse states:
“…and live with them in kindness. For if you dislike them – perhaps you dislike a thing and Allah makes therein much good.”
Moreover, according to Islamic law, it is the man who undertakes full responsibility for the maintenance of his wife, children, and in some cases, his mother and sisters.
Mistreatment in some Muslim cultures stems from traditions, not Islamic teachings. Unlike modern rights achieved through struggle and necessity—especially during the World Wars—Islam honored women from the start, not due to social pressure but because of divine truth.
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What Are The Islam Rules For Women?
In Islam, there are specific rules for women that align with their natural roles, biological differences, and responsibilities in life. Key Islamic guidelines for women include:
1. The Obligation of Hijab in Islam
Muslim women are required to observe modesty by wearing the Islamic dress code, commonly known as the hijab. This promotes dignity, modesty, and protection in public spaces.
2. Menstruation Rules of Worship Exemption
During menstruation and for forty days after childbirth, a Muslim woman is exempt from fasting and prayer. Additionally, she is not required to fast during pregnancy or nursing if it poses a threat to her health or the baby’s well-being. Missed obligatory fasts (such as those during Ramadan) should be made up later when she is able, but missed prayers do not need to be made up for these reasons.
3. Prayer Rules for Women
While prayer is obligatory for all Muslims, attending the mosque is not required for women. However, it is encouraged and considered virtuous, especially if she has no pressing responsibilities at home.
4. Exemption from Jihad (Warfare)
Women in Islam are not obligated to participate in physical combat or warfare (jihad). This is due to their biological and psychological nature, which Islam considers when assigning roles and duties.
Thus, while Islam imposes general obligations of worship on both men and women, it also sets special rules tailored to each gender. These rules help ensure that both men and women can fulfill their roles and succeed in the test of life.
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What Are Women’s Rights in Islam?
Women in Islam are honored with a unique and dignified status that reflects their rights in their different roles in society. These rights cover social, economic, and political spheres, offering women protection, equality, and empowerment according to their nature. Below are key examples of women’s rights in Islam:
1. Women’s Rights in Social Life
Islam grants women the right to choose their husbands, to own their dowries, to be financially observed from their husbands, and to seek divorce in case of an unsuccessful marriage:
A. Freedom in Marriage Choice for Women in Islam:
According to Islamic law, a woman cannot be forced to marry without her consent. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“A matron should not be given in marriage except after consulting her; and a virgin should not be given in marriage except after her permission.”
[Hadith: Sahih al-Bukhari]
B. Women’s Rights of Dowry (Mahr):
A woman in Islam has full ownership of her dowry, which is given by her husband and documented in the marriage contract. This dowry is hers alone—not her father’s, brother’s, or husband’s—and symbolizes love and respect.
C. Mutual Marital Rights in Islam:
Both spouses have equal rights and obligations, except for the man’s added responsibility for leadership and maintenance (قوامة). The Qur’an states:
“…And due to them [i.e., the wives] is similar to what is expected of them, according to what is reasonable…”
D. Right of Wives to Keep their Family Names
A Muslim woman keeps her maiden name after marriage (unlike in America or Europe).
E. Right to Seek Divorce for Women in Islam:
A Muslim woman has the right to initiate divorce through proper legal steps. Like men, women can also request divorce through Khula by returning the dowry and waiving future financial claims. The Quran affirms this:
“And when you divorce women and they have [nearly] fulfilled their term, either retain them according to acceptable terms or release them according to acceptable terms.”
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2. Muslim Women’s Rights in Economic Life
Women’s financial identity in Islam is independent. Also, women’s guardians are recommended to facilitate their education:
- Independent Ownership for Women in Islam:
A Muslim woman has full rights to buy, sell, lease, or mortgage her property independently—before and after marriage. Her financial identity remains intact and is not controlled by male relatives. - Right of Women to Work:
While Islam orders men to be financially responsible for their women and highly values a woman’s role as a mother and caregiver, she is permitted to work when necessary and by her guardian’s permission, especially in roles that suit her nature, such as teaching, nursing, and medicine. Women with unique talents can be employed in fields appropriate for them. Also, she has no obligation to spend on her family out of her properties or out of her income after marriage. - Women’s Right to Education:
Muslim women have the full right to pursue knowledge and education, which is essential for both spiritual and societal development.
3. Women’s Rights in Inheritance in Islam
Women have a guaranteed share in inheritance. 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]
While in some cases a woman’s share is half of a man’s, this does not imply inequality. The difference is based on responsibility and kinship, not on value. In other cases, women receive equal or greater shares depending on the relationship and situation.
Read more: Women’s Shares of Inheritance in Islam
4. Women’s Rights in Political Life
In Islam, the woman has the right to participate in public affairs in different ways that include:
- Right to Vote and Participate for Muslim Women: In Islam, women have the right to vote in elections, be nominated for public office, and participate in consultation (Shura) and accountability processes.
- Leadership Roles for Muslim Women: Women can hold limited administrative positions in public service suitable to their nature. For instance, Umar ibn al-Khattab appointed Al-Shafa’ bint Abdullah as supervisor of market regulations (Hisbah).
Another example is Umm Salama, the wife of the Prophet (PBUH), whose wise counsel during the Treaty of Hudaibiyah helped resolve a critical situation with diplomacy and calm.
To sum up, Islam guarantees women a comprehensive framework of rights and dignity that addresses their needs and responsibilities in all aspects of life.
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Hadiths About Women In Islam
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent by Allah Almighty, among many other things, to elevate the status of women and maintain their honor. Following are examples of hadiths (Prophetic sayings) about women in Islam:
- “Treat women good.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]
- “The best amongst you is the one who treats his family the best, and I treat my family the best.” [At-Tirmithi and others]
- “You (men) are responsible for providing for them (women) in the best way.” [Muslim]
- “The most rewarding wealth is the wealth you spend on your family.” [Ahmad]
- “Whatever you spend (on your family) is counted as a charity, even the morsel of food that you feed your wife.” [Maalik]
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Conclusion: What Does Islam Say About Women?
In short, Islam elevates women in their different roles within society—whether as mothers, wives, or daughters. The Quran refutes the misconception that women caused the first sin, establishing gender equality in terms of reward for deeds. While Islam acknowledges role differences between genders, it provides specific rulings accordingly. Islam also protects women’s honor by implementing laws to safeguard them.
In addition to honoring their roles within the family, Islam encourages women to take on positive societal roles such as contributing to education and community development. It offers a balanced marriage system and grants both spouses the right to divorce for valid reasons if reconciliation becomes impossible. The Quran also secures inheritance rights for women, clearly defining their shares regardless of age or marital status.
Finally, women in Islam, like men, share responsibility for the well-being of the nation in order to lead a balanced and fulfilling life both in this world and in the hereafter. Eager to learn more about women in Islam and why most reverts in the West are women? Start a chat with our team now!
