Women's Rights
What are women's rights in Islam?
1 - Spiritual Equality
Surely ˹for˺ Muslim men and women, believing men and women, devout men and women, truthful men and women, patient men and women, humble men and women, charitable men and women, fasting men and women, men and women who guard their chastity, and men and women who remember Allah often—for ˹all of˺ them Allah has prepared forgiveness and a great reward.
2 - Mahr (Marriage Gift)
Mahr is a mandatory gift from the husband to the wife at marriage, given as a sign of respect, commitment, and financial security. And it can be money or assets.
And give the women [upon marriage] their [bridal] gifts graciously. But if they give up willingly to you anything of it, then take it in satisfaction and ease.
3 - Independent Financial Rights
Women are also not obligated to spend their wealth on household expenses, as this responsibility lies with the husband. She can save her money or help her husband if she would like.
4 - Education
Seeking knowledge is a duty upon every Muslim (men and women)
5 - Kind Treatment
The Prophet said “The most complete of the believers in faith, is the one with the best character among them. And the best of you are those who are best to your women.”
6 - Right to Work
In Islam, women have the right to work, earn their own money, and be independent, as long as the work is ethical. This is supported by examples from early Islam, such as Khadijah, a successful businesswoman.
7 - Marriage Consent
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.
8 - Right To Divorce
In Islam, a woman has the right to divorce through khulʿ, through a judge if she is harmed, or through conditions agreed upon in the marriage contract.
9 - Political and Social Rights
Women in Islam have the right to participate in public life and express their opinions.
Women like Shifa bint Abdullah were appointed to administrative positions during the Caliphate, reflecting their active role in governance.
10 - Compassion
"Fear Allah concerning women! Verily, you have taken them on the security of Allah… Their rights upon you are that you treat them kindly and provide for them with food and clothing in a fitting manner.
11 - Inheritance
"For men there is a share in what their parents and close relatives leave, and for women there is a share in what their parents and close relatives leave—whether it is little or much. ˹These are˺ obligatory shares.
12 - Fair treatment in Polygamy
Polygamy practiced before Islam and Islam only allows it with strict conditions.
In Islam, Polygamy was a solution in situations like caring for widows and orphans, or when a wife is unable to have children. And in the times of war ofc! because the number of women is greater than men
Note: Women have the right to put a condition in her marriage contract to avoid polygamy.