Women in Quran

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WOMEN IN QURAN
1.0 Introduction

Allah S.W.T create women with various purpose and reasons. The verses of al Quran
frequently mentioned about women. Undoubtedly, women has a special position in the social
order of Islam. It is very honourable position and status does making them the fragile
humanity. As Muslim woman are placed in a special position in the Islamic society, they
always being protected. Islam preserved women through awareness, understanding their
nature attitude and also through the logical consequence of the special nature of which was
awarded to them by Allah the Almighty.

The existent of human beings in this world is begin from the womb of a women, by the
will of Allah S.W.T due to a certain process. However, there is also the present of men in
order to complete the creation. This shows that women are needed to be at men’s side in
order to develop the Muslim’s family as well as to create a better Muslim’s civilisation.

2.0 Women in Islam

Women in the world is begin from the creation of Hawa A.S, the companion and the
spouse created by Allah S.W.T to the first man who is Prophet Adam A.S.

"And among His signs is this: that He created mates for you from yourselves that you may
find rest and peace of mind in them, and He ordained between you love and mercy. Certainly,
herein indeed are signs for people who reflect." [Ar-Rum 30:21]

Muslims believe that Adam and Hawa were created by Allah for various reasons. The
beginning of people on earth start from the story of AdamA.S and Hawa. Both were
influenced by the devils. However, they felt guilty of their sin and was removed from the
paradise. Looking further example of the creation of women as a spouse to man is, Khadijah,
the wife of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. She is among the first person to convert to Islam.
Many women in Islam have had high status. In addition, Ayshah, who is the wife of the
prophet after Khadijah, became renowned as a scholar and one of the greatest sources of
Hadith literature. Many of the female Companions accomplished great deeds and achieved
fame. Based on the Islamic history, they have been well known and manage to influent the
scholars and jurists.

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3.0 Status of Women in Islam

A woman is a special person who should be treated as how Allah endowed her.
Women might be weak and not as strong as man physically, but they are very hard, strong
and power spiritually. Besides, a Muslim woman is also has their obligations. All the laws
and regulations pertaining to pillars of Islam which are prayer, fasting, charity, pilgrimage
and doing good deeds, need to apply by women. These obligations are also the ways on how
they upgrade their status in the eyes of Allah.

3.1 According to Law

There are several laws mentioning about the women status. 1These are to ensure there
are no more oppression towards the women as what had happened along century before.
These laws are commonly used in Malaysia and in intention to preserve and taking care of the
women nowadays. Based on the English Common Law;

...all real property which a wife held at the time of a marriage became a possession of her
husband. He was entitled to the rent from the land and to any profit which might be made
from operating the estate during the joint life of the spouses. As time passed, the English
courts devised means to forbid a husband's transferring real property without the consent of
his wife, but he still retained the right to manage it and to receive the money which it
produced. As to a wife's personal property, the husband's power was complete. He had the
right to spend it as he saw fit.

However, the situation begin to improve by the late nineteenth Century. "By a series
of acts starting with the Married women's Property Act in 1870, amended in 1882 and 1887,
married women achieved the right to own property and to enter contracts on a par with
spinsters, widows, and divorcees."

In Islamic law a woman is an independent and consider as a unique individual in her

own right. She has the same responsibilities towards herself, towards Allah S.W.T and
towards other human beings as well as the male. Apart from that, in Islam there is application
on Syariah Islamic Law. In Islamic Law, the women were putting at high status where there
are many cases, rights, sections and clauses relating to the matters of the women. Among the
things that are considered under the Islamic law is about the responsibility of the women,
status of women in marriage, after marriage and divorced.

1
Article by Jamal A. Badi regarding the Status of Women in Islam.

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4.0 Women’s Right

Allah S.W.T who is All-Just, given man kinds the rights of Muslim women. These
rights, which were granted to women more than 1400 years ago. Prophet Muhammad S.A.W
taught theme with perfect examples which were given by Allah and who alone knows what
rights are best for our female natures. Allah S.W.T says in the Quran;

"O You who believe! You are forbidden to inherit women against their will, and you should
not treat them with harshness, that you may take away part of the Mahr (bridal-money given
by the husband to his wife at time of marriage) you have given them, unless they commit open
illegal sexual intercourse. And live with them honorably. If you dislike them, it may be that
you dislike a thing and Allah brings through it a great deal of good." [An-Nisa 4:19]

4.1 Right that Islam Give to Women

As what have been mentioned above, Islam gives priority to women in many things
and matters. Among them are the right to enter the marriage, the right after marriage and the
right when there is divorced happen. Allah create women with a soul of the same nature as
man. Allah S.W.T says in the Quran;

"O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a single person (Adam), and
from him (Adam) He created his wife (Eve), and from them both He created many men and
women and fear Allah through Whom you demand your mutual (rights), and (do not cut the
relations of) the wombs (kinship). Surely, Allah is Ever and All-Watcher over you."
[Al-Nisa 4:1]

4.2 Right to Go Outside Home

Muslim women are allowed to go out in the community for the purpose of working, or
visiting relatives and female friends, with the permission given by their guardian or husband.
In spite of that, the Muslim women need to cover their 2aurah, behave and speak according to
Islamic guidelines. If necessary, their 3Mahram who is a close male relative can escorted her.
However, a woman’s home should be the main base for her to work for. Allah S.W.T
instructed the wife’s of the Prophet S.A.W;

"O wives of the Prophet! You are not like any other women. If you keep your duty (to Allah),
then be not soft in speech, lest he is whose heart is a disease (of hypocrisy or evil desire for

2
Aurah: The private parts that must be covered.
3
Mahaarim pl. of mahram a husband and a woman's male siblings who are not lawful for her to marry.

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adultery, etc.) should be moved with desire, but speak in an honorable manner. And stay in
your houses, and do not display yourselves like that of the times of ignorance, and offer
prayers perfectly (Iqamat-as-Salat), and give Zakat and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah
wishes only to remove Ar-Rijs (evil deeds and sins, etc.) from you, O members of the family
[of the Prophet (SAW)], and to purify you with a thorough purification." [Al-Ahzab 33:32-
33]

4.3 Right to Get an Education

Prophet Muhammad S.A.W said;"To seek knowledge is obligatory on every Muslim."4
Muslim here meaning male and female Muslims, as women are the twin halves of men. The
Prophet S.A.W also said;

"Whoever follows a way to seek knowledge, Allah will make easy for him a way to paradise."
(Declared Authentic By Shaikh Muhammad Naasir-ud-Deen Al-Albaani)

Besides, a woman in Islam has the right to acquire knowledge and to have better
education. Allah S.W.T encourages women to read and keep up the learning process. He also
bestows His mercy upon all who seek knowledge, and gives them high status. Allah said;

"O you who believe! When you are told to make room in the assemblies, (spread out and)
make room. Allah will give you (ample) room (from His Mercy). And when you are told to
rise up (for prayers, Jihad, or for any other good deed), rise up. Allah will exalt in degree
those of you who believe, and those who have been granted knowledge. And Allah is Well-
Acquainted with what you do.
[Al-Mujadilah 58:11]

This is referring to religious knowledge, in the first place, and to any other kind of
knowledge, in the second place, with one’s intention is to benefit herself, her family and the
Muslim society. Therefore, a husband should not forbid his wife from going out of the house
to seek basic religious knowledge, unless he is teaching her at home. The Quran advises
mankind to pray;

"Then High above all be Allah, the True King. And be not in haste [O Muhammad (SAW)]
with the Quran before its revelation is completed to you, and say: My Lord! Increase me in
knowledge." [Ta-Ha 20:114]

4
Declared Authentic By Shaikh Muhammad Naasir-ud-Deen Al-Albaani

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4.4 Right to go to the Mosque

The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W said:

"If someone’s wife asks his permission to go to the mosque, he should not deny it to her."

Women should be covered their aurah as per though by Islam. This is to ensure that
they are well preserved and to take care of their dignity when going out from house. In spite
of that, if they are dressing properly, the crime and unwanted cases are expected less to
happen.

However, it is better for a woman to pray at home. This is because, she can focus
more and convenience her to do household duties and to carry the responsibility as a mother.
Meanwhile, this situation also to prevent unnecessary mixing with men who is not mahram. It
is also one of the way to not encourage any slander to occur. The Prophet S.A.W also stated
on another occasion regarding the hadith;

"But their homes are better for them." 5

4.5 Rights of a Muslim Wife

There are several right of Muslim’s women that always been highlighted when they
are entering into marriage. These rights are an obligatory to be considered and presented to
the wife upon marriage. This is because Islam want to teach women and man always give and
takes in completing each other’s life.

"Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has made the one of them
to excel the other, and because they spend (to support them) from their means. Therefore the
righteous women are devoutly obedient (to Allah and to their husbands), and guard in the
husband’s absence what Allah orders them to guard (e.g. their chastity, their husband’s
property, etc)…" [An-Nisa’ 4:34]

4.5.1 Mahr (Dowry)

During marriage, in Islam, the man should presents his wife with a dowry based on
mutually agreed that have made before. The amount varies according to his means and
generosity, and his wife has the right to spend, save or remit any part of it. Nowadays, in

5
Narrated by Abu Dawud and Ahmed.

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Malaysia, there are certain amount limited and being established varying from each state.
Allah S.W.T says in the Quran;

"And give to the women (whom you marry) their Mahr (obligatory bridal-money given by the
husband to his wife at the time of marriage) with a good heart, but if they, of their own good
pleasure, remit any part of it to you, take it, and enjoy it without fear of any harm (as Allah
has made it lawful).
[An-Nisa’ 4:4]

4.5.2 Maintenance6

Women have been entrusted by Allah S.W.T to provide a peaceful, comfortable home
environment for the husband, who is striving working for their provisions outside the home
for the whole day. Male is also being entrusted to give protection and being the provider to
the women. It is very good honoured to woman, who is burdened with the long cycle of
bearing, giving birth, taking care and raising the children, without having to assume the extra
burden of her own and her children’s support, which is unjust and a tremendous hardship.

As long as the husband does not ask anything forbidden of his wife, the wife must
obey to him. The wife also need to guard his possessions while the husband is away from the
house, and manage his money as he wishes, become faithful, trustworthy and honest. As man
provide maintenance to the wife, she thus must also know how to benefit it and taking care of
it.
A wife is consider as a source of love, peace and compassion, as stated in the Quran;

"And among His Signs is this, that He created for you wives from among yourselves, that you
may find repose in them , and He has put between you affection and mercy. Verily, in that are
indeed signs for a people who reflect." [Ar-Rum 30:21]

4.5.3 Good Treatment, Consideration and Companionship

Allah S.W.T asked men to be generous and kind to their wives. This was mentioned
in the Quran that;

"It is He Who has created you from a single person (Adam), and (then) He has created form
him his wife (Eve), in order that he might enjoy the pleasure of living with her…"
[Al-A’raf 7:189]

6
Maintenance in other word also called as afkah .

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This means that a wife and a husband are meant for mutual support, comfort, and
protection of each other. They need to cooperate and complementing each other in order to
achieve a good understanding and happiness. The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W also
emphasized the goodness of the compassionate and generous treatment towards the wife;

"I command you to treat women kindly. Woman has been created from a rib (the rib is
crooked), and the most crooked part of the rib is the upper region. If you try to make it
straight you will break it, and if you leave it as it is, it will remain curved. So treat women
kindly."7

Prophet Muhammad S.A.W also mentioned;

"The best of you are those who are best to the women."8

Besides that, a good husband is one who provides his wife with true leadership
without roughness or remissness, and who does not misuse his power and strength. Even if
the behaviour of a wife is not in a good condition for example the wife may not always be in
strong health and of cheery disposition, the man is asked to be patient and treat her nicely.
Allah S.W.T says;

"O you who believe! You are forbidden to inherit women against their will, and you should
not treat them with harshness, that you may take away part of the Mahr (dowry, bridal-
money given by the husband to his wife at the time of marriage) you have given them, unless
they commit open illegal sexual intercourse. And live with them honorably. If you dislike
them, it may be that you dislike a thing and Allah brings through it a great deal of good."
[An-Nisa’ 4:19]

A wife has the right to her husband’s attention, companionship and time. The husband
should try to pay attention and make her please, emphasize her needs, wishes, interest, and
making time for relaxation and recreation together.

4.5.4 The Right Not To Be Beaten

Prophet Muhammad S.A.W specifically said in a hadith; "Do not beat the female
servants of Allah." (Abu Dawud)

7
Declared Authentic by Al-Bukhari
8
Declared Authentic by At-Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah and Al-Jami Al-Saker

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However, due to a certain reasons, Islam allowed women to be beaten but this is only
when they are doing the wrong things instructed by the guidelines of Islam only. In spite of
that, the rate and method on how to be beaten was told by the prophet before. Such treatment
is only for the purpose to give a lesson towards the women who committing wrongdoings.
The Prophet S.A.W said; "When one of you inflicts a beating, he should avoid striking the
face."

Allah S.W.T says in the Quran;

"…As to those women on whose part you see ill-conduct, admonish them (first), (next), refuse
to share their beds, (and last) beat them (lightly, if it is useful), but if they return to
obedience, seek not against them means (of annoyance). Surely, Allah is Ever Most High,
Most Great." (An-Nisa’ 4:34)

5.0 Great Women in Islam

Women in the prophet time was very determined. They always willing to help their
husband or father who is a prophet, during to spread the da’wah, to fight in the battle and to
perform ibadah in the daily lifestyle. There is a hadith explaining about the great women in
Islam;

Anas Radhi-Allahu ‘anhu reports that Nabi Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam has said: “From
among the women of the world who have reached perfection and who are worthy of following
are (the following four):Miryam the daughter of Imran; Khadija daughter of Khuwailid;
Fatima daughter of Muhammad and Asiyah wife of Fir’aun”9

5.1 Maryam, the daughter of Imran

Maryam spent her teenager age at the Baitul Muqaddas. Although she did not
married, she miraculously gave birth to Isa A.S. She was accused of adultery and case away
for bringing disrepute to the family name. There is no person believed her especially when
she came to her people as a spinster with a child in hand. She think she could declared herself
from the charge of adultery. Allah S.W.T said;

“So she came to her people carrying the child with her.” They said:” O Miryam you have
indeed done an amazing thing” … she pointed to him- they exclaimed: “How can we talk to

9
Declared Authentic by Tirmidhi.

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one who is a child in the cradle?” But He (the child) said: “I am the servant of Allah who has
given me the Book and made me a Prophet.” [Maryam:27-30]

The most amazing thing happened to her when the baby spoke and vindicated his
mother from the accusation of infidelity. When she gave her life to Allah, Allah gave her a
child that protected her integrity even whilst he was in the cradle.

5.2 Khadija Daughter of Khuwailid

Khadija was extremely wise, intelligent, gentle, and influential called Tahira (chaste
and pure) even in the era of ignorance. She was very wealthy and a prosperous business
woman. During the age of forty, she married to Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. she is the first
wife to the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. Besides, she always assist the Prophet with moral
support, financial, and emotional support.

When Prophet Muhammad S.A.W first seeing Jibril A.S in the cave of Hira, he was
terrified and feared for his life. He ran down the mountain trembling and crying: “Cover me
up! Cover me up!” It was Khadija R.A who consoled him. She was his pillar of support and
definitely believed in him when everyone else doubted him. She served as his refuge,
consoled him, supported him and cared for him when Prophet was alone, confused and
terrified. She stood by him when everyone else shunned him. Khadija R.A rallied to the call
of Islam, she gave a home to the Prophet, she was his first confidant, and tower of strength.

5.3 Fatima Daughter of Muhammad

Prophet Muhammad S.A.W would often said: “Fatima is of my flesh, he who angers
her, angers me”10

Fatimah R.A was the youngest child of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W and the only child
who survived him. There was very extreme poverty and struggle during her life. She
constantly saw the unbelievers mistreated, insulted and humiliated her father. One day, when
she accompanied her father to the Masjid al-Haram. He stood in the place known as al-Hijr
facing the Kabah and began to pray. Fatimah stood beside him. A group of Quraysh gathered
around him. They included Abu Jahl ibn Hisham, the Prophet’s uncle and his follower. He
asked; “Which of you can bring the entrails of a slaughtered animal and throw it on
Muhammad?” Uqbah ibn Abi Muayt, one of the vilest of the lot, volunteered and hurried off.

10
Narrated by Bukhari & Muslim.

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He returned with the unpleasant filth and threw it on the shoulders of the Prophet while he
was still prostrating.

It is a bad feeling to Fatimah as she saw her father being humiliated in this manner.
She went up to her father and removed the filth and then stood firmly and angrily before the
group of Quraish being rude to them. Such scenes of vicious opposition and harassment
against her father and the early Muslims were witnessed by the young Fatimah almost every
day. She did not meekly stand aside but joined struggle in defencing her father and his noble
mission.

5.4 Asiyah wife of Fir’aun

“And for those who have faith Allah has set forth a parable in the (story) of Fir’aun’s
wife when she prayed: O my sustainer! Build for me a mansion in paradise by You and save
me from Fir’aun and his doings and save me from all evil doing people.”

When the magicians fell into sajdah and declared their faith in Allah and accepted
Musa A.S as the Prophet of Allah, the wife of Fir’aun also declared her faith. Fir’aun began
punishing her by pegging her to the ground and exposing her to the midday sun. The angle
would give her shade by their wings when the Fir’aun turned away from her.

He then gave her a choice; ‘Either retract from your belief or be prepared to be
crushed by a huge boulder.’ She chose not to be erected. As she was placed onto the ground
she saw the sky, she could see her place in Jannah and prayed; “O my sustainer! Build for me
a mansion in paradise by You and save me from Fir’aun and his doings and save me from all
evil doing people. As she said this, her soul left her body and the boulder then crushed her
lifeless body.

6.0 Roles of Women in Society

Women are also part of the society. They also contribute to many successes and
achievement. There are many roles of women in the society and among them are as a mother,
daughter and a wife.

6.1 Women as a Mother

Allah said in Quran regarding the kindness to parents especially the mothers, to a
status second to the worship of God. Besides, the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W specified this

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behaviour for his followers, rendering to mothers an unequalled status in human

relationships.

A man came to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and said, “O Messenger of God! Who
among the people is the most worthy of my good companionship?” The Prophet (pbuh) said:
{Your mother.} The man said, “Then who?” The Prophet (pbuh) said: {Then your mother.}
The man further asked, “Then who?” The Prophet (pbuh) said: {Then your mother.} The
man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet (pbuh) said: {Then your father.}

This shows that a mother is the utmost important person in our life, followed by the
father. The mother is the person who carry people during the pregnancy and then bring to the
world with the will of Allah. It is a woman who is a mother, plays a very important roles in
growing up a children until they are adults and able to manage themselves. Therefore, people
should know how to appreciate the women who are called mothers as they are occupied
almost the whole society.

6.2 As a Daughter

Before Islam, the life of a daughter is very threaten and always not in comfortable.
The Quran ended the cruel practice of female infanticide, which was before Islam. Allah said:

“And when the girl (who was) buried alive is asked, for what sin she was killed.” [At-
Takwir:8-9]

The Quran went further to rebuke the unwelcoming attitude of some parents upon
hearing the news of the birth of a baby girl, instead of a baby boy. Allah has said;

“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? Certainly, evil is what
they decide.” [An Nahl ;58-59]

Therefore, parents are responsible to support and show generosity and justice to their
daughters. Either the daughter or son, parent should not bias in giving treatment, maintenance
and love. This is because, daughter is a woman and they are all the uncounted valuable gifts.
The Prophet Muhammad S.A.W said;

“Whosoever supports two daughters until they mature, he and I will come on the Day of
Judgment as this (and he pointed with his fingers held together).”

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6.3 As a Wife

For the goodness of the family and the tranquillity of the home, Islam grants each
spouse certain rights and responsibilities. However, in the current lifestyle, a wife also play a
role in helping her husband in term of physical support and moral support.

A wife help her husband in earning income to the families. She works when there is
permission from the husband. The wife also assist her husband in doing the household course
and managing the need of the husband properly. In giving moral support, the wife always
being the good companion, listener and sometimes a problem solver to the husband regarding
any matters and circumstances faced by her husband.

7.0 Women in Da’wah

From the early century, women have played vital roles in the propagation of the
fundamental truths of Islamic Da'wah. From the sacrifices of Sumayyah, to the collected of
hadiths by Ayshah, women have taken part in the flourishing and spreading of this religion
which is the Islam. Unfortunately during these times, the Islamic revival suffers from
weaknesses in its properly qualified personnel, which limits its spreading and restricts the
Da'wah work to an elitist group of activists, with only limited efforts of Da'wah and tarbiyah
being focused on women.

However, nowadays, women are mostly well educated and having good initiative in
seeking knowledge in all range of fields. This is due to the command of the prophet which is;

“Seeking knowledge is mandatory for every Muslim.”11

Therefore, there is no doubt if there are many women filling the quota in the universities,
working, and done the da’wah just like what men can do.

Apart from that, when women are well exposed with the current knowledge, adapting
with the society, and well educated by the Quran and Sunnah, they can easily carry the duty
of the society in doing the da’wah. Besides, these women must get their permission and bless
from their husband in doing so. Basically, there is no restriction by the spouse if the women
are intended to carry a good responsibility to the society, even sometimes the spouse
themselves would like to give a hand in doing such ibadah together.

11
Narrated in Al-Bayhaqi and Ibn-Majah.

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8.0 Words of Women

Abu Hurayrah relates that Allah's Messenger, Prophet Muhammad S.A.W said;

“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak a good word or remain silent.
And whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should show hospitality to his neighbor. And
whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should show hospitality to his guest.”12

This hadith discusses some of the ways a Muslim's faith should affect the way he
relates to others. It is likely to be emphasize that, the words of a Muslims are very important.
We need to speak for the things that benefits ourselves and others and watch out the mouth
from uttering the words that can suffer others.

Are men and women allowed to speak together for practical reasons if they avoid
flirtation and unnecessary chatter? 13It is permissible for men and women to speak to each
other for a legitimate reason as long as temptation is avoided. When men and women speak,
there should be no inordinate softness or complaisance of speech. Allah S.W.T said;

“O wives of the Prophet! you are not like any other of the women; If you will be on your
guard, then be not soft in (your) speech, lest he in whose heart is a disease yearn; and speak
a good word.” [al-Ahzab 33: 32]

This verse was sent with respect to the Mothers of the Believers, then people should
know how much more should its ruling apply to other women who are lower in honour than
they were.

Women used to come the Prophet and talk to him in the presence of the Companions,
and he had never refused to speak with them. For example; Zaynab, the wife of Ibn Mas`ud,
asked Bilal to ask the Prophet (peace be upon him) about giving Zakah to one’s husband and
children. Asma’ bint Yazid asked the Prophet (peace be upon him) about ghusl after the end
of menstrual period and after having sexual intercourse. Umm Sulaym asked about a woman
having a wet dream and for the ruling thereto.14

12
Declared Authentic by Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim.
13
Sheikh Riyad al-Musaymiri, professor at al-Imam University in Riyadh.
14
Declared Authentic by Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim.

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15
Moreover, it was related that Abu Hurayrah spoke to a woman objecting to her for
wearing strong perfume in public while going – or coming back – from the mosque.

There are many more examples, and all such talk can take place when needed if
temptation is avoided, and the parties refrain from being soft and complaisant in speech.
Also, a man and woman should never be in seclusion together.

8.1 Etiquette of Women in Talking.

Muslims should know the etiquette of talking to women in general as well as in the
situations such as purchasing goods, teaching and learning, meetings to discuss work. For
example explaining something specific to her. Besides, speaking to non-mahram women may
occur due to a need or it may occur needlessly. It is haram if it is done needlessly and only
for fun and enjoyment. The Prophet S.A.W said that it comes under the heading of the zina of
the tongue and ears of which spoke;

“The son of Adam’s share of zina has been decreed for him, which he will inevitably get. The
zina of the eyes is looking, the zina of the ears is listening, the zina of the tongue is speaking,
the zina of the hands is touching, and the zina of the foot is walking. The heart longs and
wishes, and the private part confirms that or denies it.”16

However, when there is a need for women to speak to other non-mahram, the basic
principle is that it is permissible, but it is essential to pay attention for a several consideration
and action that may avoid the unwanted things to happen. Therefore, it is good for women to
follow the following etiquette:

8.1.1 Avoiding joking and laughing with non-mahram.

Joking and laughing with opposite gender of non-mahram is not part of etiquette and
dignity. Therefore, women should prevent this from happening in their daily life especially
during mingling with the society.

8.1.2 Avoiding staring with non-mahram.

Women must also prevent themselves from staring the eyes of their non-mahram.
They should always trying hard to lower the gaze as much as possible. But, if there is a quick
glance for the purpose of speaking, there is nothing wrong with that.

15
Sunan Abi Dawudwith good line of transmission
16
Narrated by Muslim.

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8.1.3 Do not softening the voice.

People know that women voice are quite seducing and soft naturally. Therefore, it is
the responsible of the women to do not choosing soft words as they can speak the same
ordinary tone of voice as they would speak to anyone else. Allah says;

“Then be not soft in speech, lest he in whose heart is a disease (of hypocrisy, or evil desire
for adultery, etc.) should be moved with desire, but speak in an honourable manner”
[al-Ahzaab 33:32].

8.1.4 Avoiding the use of any words that may have some suggestive meanings, and so on.

Women should know on how to communicate with other people especially the non-
mahram. For example, when women are going to speak with them, they have to choose the
most suitable words and directly mention what they need as long as they are speaking for a
good intention.

8.1.5 Not going to extremes in delivering a speech.

Some women use their skills in communication with others by movements of the hand
and face or by quoting poetry or proverbs and romantic phrases. These will be done in
moderate manner. There are certain rules and regulations nowadays for the women who
involved in such field. There are also limitation and guideline provided for the women to
deliver speech. Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allah have mercy on him) said;

“None of the poets see anything wrong with talking to, addressing or looking at non-mahram
women, but this is contrary to Islam and common sense, and it is exposing oneself to
temptation. How many people have been affected in this way with regard to their religious
commitment and worldly affairs?”

9.0 Comparing Women

Based on the history, women’s behaviour, right and duties are varies depending on
their religion, culture and political background. 17As a result, discriminatory customs such as
withholding from a wife, a daughter or a sister’s right to their portion of the family estate
socialized misogyny and sexism into the society. Thus there is a case where ancient and
medieval scriptures claim evidence to this fact by alienating women from the family tree and

17
From the article of Wo e s I herita ce & its Historical de elop e t.

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justifying their eternal state of poverty. In spite, there are another background of women that
are also being concerned.

9.1 Women in Ancient Civilization

18
According to the history, in India, obedient was a fundamental in the ways of their
life. Women must be held by their guidance or protectors in a state of dependence called
Manu. The rule of inheritance was very strong, where the decadences were traced through
males to the exclusion of females.

Besides that, in Hindu scriptures, they also describe about the attitude of a good wife.
This was stated as; "a woman whose mind, speech and body are kept in subjection, acquires
high renown in this world, and, in the next, the same abode with her husband." Besides,
women in Hindu also will get the dowry. This practice is not endorsed by orthodox Hinduism
and "may be a perversion of Sanskrit marriage prescriptions." The dowries are also describe
the cast. Among the higher castes, a dowry is given by the girl's family but among lower
caste families, the dowry is given to the girl's family.

19
In Athens, women were not better off than either the Indian or the Roman women.
Athenian women were always minors, subject to some male which are to their father, brother,
or to some of their male kin. Besides, if divorced happened, her property which was turned
over to her husband upon marriage was given back to her father or male protectors. The
Athenian women also would only be seen at religious events, weddings, and funerals if they
were going to merge with the society.

20
In the other hand, a Roman wife was described by an historian as; "a babe, a minor,
a ward, a person incapable of doing or acting anything according to her own individual
taste, a person continually under the tutelage and guardianship of her husband." The ancient
Rome’s wife was aimed to carry an excellent household. The household was the main
important work of both business and family matters. However, Aristocratic Roman women
could go out in public, unlike their Greek counterparts. But, they believe that women were
not at all admired or esteemed if they worked. In addition, they also can do purchasing and
manage property and commercial enterprises but only through other person.

18
Describing the status of the Indian woman, by Encyclopedia Britannica.
19
Ancients Athens by http://www.ancientathens.org/culture/women-athens sources.
20
Article by Nancy Padgett in http://travelswithnancy.com/women-ancient-rome/women%27s-daily-life.htm.

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9.2 In comparing women in Islam.

In Islam, men and women are expected to fulfil the same duties pillars of Islam which
are to worship Allah, prayer, faith, almsgiving, fasting, and pilgrimage to Mecca. Allah do
not distinguish the genders in contributing His essences. Compared to earlier Arab cultures,
Islam generally upgrade the status of women, prohibiting the action of killing the female
babies and recognizing women's full personhood.

Apart from that, Islamic law emphasizes the contractual nature of marriage. In this
case, Islam requires a dowry be paid to the woman rather than to her family. They are also
guaranteed in women's rights of inheritance and to own and manage property. Women were
also granted the right to live in the matrimonial home and receive financial maintenance
during marriage and a waiting period following death and divorce which is called e’dah.

During the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W time, he consulted women and weighed their
opinions seriously. At least one woman, Umm Waraqah, was appointed imam over her
household by Muhammad. Women contributed significantly to the canonization of the Quran.
A woman is known to have corrected the authoritative ruling of Caliph Umar on dowry.
Women prayed in mosques unsegregated from men, were involved in hadith transmission,
gave sanctuary to men, engaged in commercial transactions, were encouraged to seek
knowledge, and were both instructors and pupils in the early Islamic period. For example,
Aishah R.A, the prophets’s wife was a well-known authority in medicine, history, and
rhetoric.

The Quran refers to women who pledged an oath of allegiance to Muhammad

independently of their male kin. 21Some distinguished women converted to Islam prior to
their husbands, a demonstration of Islam's recognition of their capacity for independent
action. Women was appointed by Caliph Umar to serve as officials in the market of Medina.
Biographies of distinguished women, especially in Muhammad's household, show that
women behaved relatively autonomously in early Islam. To sum up, women were recognized
as teachers, adherents, “spiritual mothers,” and even inheritors of the spiritual secrets of their
fathers.

21
From The Oxford Dictionary of Islam.

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10.0 The Leadership of Women

From Umm Waraqah, the daughter of Abdullah bin al-Harith;

"The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) used to visit her at her
house. He appointed a mu'adhdhin to call Adhan for her and he commanded her to lead the
inmates of her house in prayer." Abdurrahman said, "I saw that her mu'adhdhin was an old
man."22

This Hadith establishes that the Imamate of women and their praying in congregation
is true and affirmed by means of the order of the Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. Ayshah and
Umm Salamah led the women in prayer for the obligatory prayers and the prayer of Tarawih.

From this story, we can gather that, women also can be a leader especially in being
the leader in payers. But, this only can be done when the rest of the Jemaah is all the women.
From this situation, we can see that women also given a chance to lead the group of
community. Starting from this imamate, women can develop the skill and implement it
during mingling in the society.

11.0 Women in Paradise

Paradise is the tremendous reward which Allah has prepared for His beloved
(awliyaa) and those who obey Him. It is complete joy and pleasure, where nothing is lacking
and nothing can disturb its purity. What Allah and His Messenger have told us about it makes
out heads spin because our minds are not able to comprehend the greatness of such bless.
Listen to the words of Allah S.W.T 23"I have prepared for My righteous slaves that which no
eye has seen, no ear has heard and has never crossed the mind of any human being".

The Prophet S.A.W said; “If a woman prayed the five daily prayers, fasted the month
of Ramadan, maintained her chastity and obeyed her husband, it would be said to her, 'Enter
Paradise from whatever gate you like.'”

Admittance to Paradise and salvation from the Fire are according to Allah's will and
judgement, it is a great victory and tremendous success, as Allah says;

22
Declared Authentic by Abu Dawud
23
Narrated from Hadith Qudsi

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"Allah has promised to believers - men and women - Gardens under which rivers flow, to
dwell therein [forever], and beautiful mansions in Gardens of everlasting bliss. But the
greatest bliss is the Good Pleasure of Allah. That is the supreme felicity [or success]".
[At-Tauba 9:72]

11.1 What Await Women in Paradise

Women who enter Paradise will be restored their youth and virginity, as the Prophet
S.A.W said; “…Old women will not enter Paradise… when Allah The Almighty admits them
to Paradise, He will make them virgins.”

In an authentic Hadith, the Prophet S.A.W said to women; “I have seen you
constituting the majority of the dwellers of Hell …”In another Hadith, the Prophet S.A.W
said; “The least in number among the dwellers of Paradise are women.”24

However, it was narrated in another authentic Hadith that each man of this world will
have two wives from this world in Paradise. Therefore, there are three opinions regarding the
coordination between these Hadiths, i.e., whether women will form the majority in Paradise
or in Hell.

25
Women will form the majority of the dwellers of Paradise and Hell, because they
outnumber men. Women will form the majority of the dwellers of Hell as proved by
abovementioned Hadiths, and they will also form the majority of the inhabitants of Paradise
and outnumber men when they are added to the Hoor (ladies of Paradise). Besides, women
will be the majority in Hell at the beginning, and then will form the majority in Paradise
when the Muslim women leave Hell (after receiving the due punishment for their sins).

12.0 General Review

Women in Islam are put at a higher level in term of their dignity, right, and
scarification towards other Muslims and people around the worlds. Although there are many
bad and severe stories regarding the women before Islam as well as the women in other
religious, they are now keep on gaining attention by the world especially the man in order to
be protect, treated nicely and become a good companion. The women themselves nowadays
are mostly having a high esteem and courage as they are receiving a good education and

24
Narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim.
25
The views from Al-Qaadhi ‘Iyaadh.

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knowledge in the universities and also from the mercy of the Quran. They are able to
distinguish the good and the bad things, giving opinions and thus also contributing to the
development of the new generation upcoming.

13.0 Conclusion
To summarise, the creation of every women are very special and their affairs are
regularly being mentioned in the Quran, the book of Allah. Every single thing regarding the
women are talk from the beginning of the world to the end of the day. Among the example
have been discuss and elaborate on the above articles. No doubt that there are a lots more of
the verses talking about the women in the Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad
S.A.W.

Therefore, it is mandatory and compulsory for the women to follow the guideline
given to them by Allah S.W.T in the Quran. These are to ensure the women is preserved and
avoided from being oppressed thus also to give a beautiful life to the women in the world and
the hereafter.

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