Does Islam really oppress women?

Does Islam really oppress women? Many misconceptions surround this question. In reality, Islam honors and protects women, granting them dignity, equality, and rights centuries before modern feminism.

Does Islam oppress women? The truth about women in Islam

The idea that Islam oppresses women is one of the most misunderstood beliefs in today’s world. In fact, Islam was the first religion to grant women the right to own property, seek education, and participate in society.

1. In the Qur’an

The Quran emphasizes the equality of men and women in faith and deeds:

Surah Al-Hujurat (49:13)

“Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.”

This verse highlights that a person’s worth in Islam is based on righteousness not gender.  Islam gave women the right to inheritance, the right to choose their spouse, and the right to education. Long before women in other parts of the world had any legal rights, Islam recognized their individuality and contribution to society.

• In Sunna

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also said:

“The best of you are those who are best to their women.”

(Tirmidhi)

Such teachings clearly show that Islam calls for respect, love, and fair treatment toward women.

Women in Islam: Honoured and protected

Women in Islam hold a high and respected status as mothers, daughters, and wives.

1. The Prophet (PBUH) placed great importance on women’s rights, saying:

“Paradise lies under the feet of mothers.”

(Nasai)

• A situation with the prophet’s wife

During the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him and his companions were upset because they couldn’t perform Umrah that year, and many companions hesitated to end their pilgrimage as the treaty required.

The Prophet (PBUH) entered his tent saddened, and Umm Salama (may Allah be pleased with her) advised him:

“Go out, O Messenger of Allah, and do not speak to anyone until you have slaughtered your sacrifice and shaved your head.”

He followed her advice. When the companions saw him do this, they immediately followed his actions, ending the tension peacefully.

This wise and calm decision by a Muslim woman helped restore unity, proving that Islam values women’s intelligence, wisdom, and also leadership.

Wearing hijab doesn’t make Muslim women oppressed

One of the biggest misconceptions is that the hijab symbolizes oppression. In truth, the hijab is a choice of faith and modesty, not suppression. Allah says in the Qur’an:

Surah Al-Ahzab (33:59)

“O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks over themselves.”

This verse encourages dignity and also protection not restriction. In addition, for many Muslim women, wearing the hijab is an act of empowerment and devotion, representing their freedom. Besides, it defines beauty by character, not appearance.

Related posts: The rights of women in Islam

In Conclusion, Islam values women as equal spiritual beings with unique roles and responsibilities. True oppression comes not from religion but from cultural practices that misrepresent it.

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