Women in Islam: Five Most Common Misconceptions

Living in the West, we often encounter assertions such as "women in Islam have no rights," "they are oppressed," "they are subservient to their husbands," and "men have power over women." These statements reflect a significant misunderstanding of our faith, particularly regarding women’s rights. The public portrayal of Islam greatly differs from its true teachings.

When evaluating women's rights, it is essential to rely on authentic sources – The Holy Quran and the authentic Hadiths of our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), rather than on certain practices within Muslim societies that may not always reflect Islamic teachings.

Below, I outline the five most common misconceptions about women in Islam. By gaining an accurate understanding of these issues, we can better appreciate our true position and correct the distorted views that undermine our religious principles.

Misconception #1: Men are Superior to Women.

It is often claimed that women in Islam are considered inferior.

Equality is often understood as having identical roles and capabilities. However, is it reasonable to expect a short, 120-pound woman to lift a heavy weight as easily as a tall, 180-pound man, or to run a marathon at the same speed? Similarly, can a man realistically match a woman’s ability to breastfeed or her typically stronger nurturing instincts? Each gender possesses unique strengths and inherent biological and psychological differences that naturally distinguish our respective roles and responsibilities. Recognizing these differences does not diminish the value of equality or the inherent dignity of either gender; rather, it highlights the complementary nature of men and women.

In Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4), verse 124, Allah SWT says:

“And whoever does righteous good deeds, male or female, and is a true believer in the Oneness of Allah, such will enter Paradise and not the least injustice, even to the size of a Naqira, will be done to them.”

This verse emphasizes that it is the quality of one’s faith and actions that determine the goodness of our life and reward in the Hereafter.

Furthermore, it is clarified in Surah Al-Hujurat (Chapter 49), verse 13:

"O humanity! Indeed, We created you from a male and a female and made you into peoples and tribes so that you may get to know one another. Surely the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous among you. Allah is truly All-Knowing, All-Aware."

According to the Quran righteousness and piety are the true measures of honour in the eyes of Allah, transcending any distinctions of not only gender, but also of race, and social status.

In Sahih al-Bukhari, Good Manners and Form (Al-Adab), Hadith 5971, narrated by Abu Huraira:

A man asked the Messenger of Allah, (peace and blessings be upon him), “Who is most deserving of love and compassion?” The Prophet said, “Your mother.” The man asked, “Then who?” The Prophet said “Your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet said, “Your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet said, “Your father.”

This Hadith highlights the profound importance of a mother’s love and devotion, reflecting the high status of mothers in Islam and the deep respect and honour they deserve.

Equality is not about identical roles, but rather about recognizing and valuing the distinct strengths and contributions of each gender. Both the Quran and the Hadith provide clear guidance in this regard, emphasizing the importance of righteousness and respect for individual roles, irrespective of gender.

Misconception #2: Women Have No Say in Marriage.

The belief that women in Islam have no say in matters of marriage is another common misconception. It is crucial to distinguish between cultural practices in some Muslim communities and the actual teachings of the Holy Quran.

For the marriage to be valid in Islam, there must be mutual consent from both parties.

The Quran explicitly states in Surah An-Nisa, chapter 4, verse 19, that it is not permissible to inherit women against their will.

This principle is further reinforced in Sahih al-Bukhari, Marriage (Nikkaah), Hadith 5138. It is narrated that a woman named Khansa bint Khadim Al Ansariya, approached the Prophet (peace and blessing be upon him), and said her father had married her to a person against her wishes. The Prophet nullified the marriage, affirming that a woman's consent is crucial.

Furthermore, a woman is entitled to a Mahr (dowry), a compulsory marital gift the groom must provide. The Quran instructs in Surah An-Nisa, chapter 4, verse 4:

"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)."

Unlike some cultural customs found in different parts of the world, such as India, where the bride’s family must provide a dowry to the groom, Islamic law mandates that the dowry is the husband’s responsibility to his wife. Women have the right to determine the amount of their dowry, though it should be within the financial means of the groom.  This dowry belongs solely to the wife, and she is not obliged to share it; she can use the gift as she wishes.

Misconception #3: Women are forced to cover by their husbands.

Another prevalent misconception is that Muslim women are ordered by their husbands to wear the hijab or other forms of cover. The directive for wearing the hijab comes not from the husband but directly from Allah SWT.

"O Prophet! Ask your wives, daughters, and believing women to draw their veils over their bodies. In this way it is more likely that they will be recognized ˹as virtuous˺ and not be harassed. And Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful." Quran, Surah Al-Ahzab, Verse 59.

Wearing a hijab is an act of obedience to Allah SWT and a fulfillment of His commands, not a result of human imposition. The hijab serves to protect a woman’s dignity, ensuring that her beauty is reserved for her close family rather than being displayed publicly. It also shields her from unwanted attention and helps maintain her privacy. Beyond just the physical aspect of covering, the hijab involves how a woman conducts herself - how she speaks, acts, and presents herself in society.

By covering themselves, women resist the objectification of their bodies, which challenges societal standards that often value women primarily for their physical appearance. Thus, the hijab, far from being a symbol of oppression, is embraced by many women as an empowering aspect of their faith and adherence to Islamic principles.

Misconception #4: Muslim women have no right to education.

The assertion that women in Islam are prohibited from obtaining education contradicts Islamic teachings. This belief often comes from cultural practices in some regions, rather than religion itself. Islam places a high value on the education of all believers, regardless of gender.

Anas ibn Malik reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim."

This directive applies equally to both men and women.

In Surah Taha, Verse 114, Allah SWT encourages all believers to seek knowledge:

"And say, My Lord, increase me in knowledge." This prayer underscores the value placed on continuous learning for both genders.

During the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), several women were great scholars and played crucial roles in the transmission of Islamic Knowledge. A prominent example is Aisha (May Allah be pleased with her), the Prophet's wife.  She was highly knowledgeable in three aspects; Theology kalam, Medicine, and Poetry. She was not only one of the earliest Islamic scholars but also a major source of hadith literature. She was dedicated to educating women, and she established the very first women's Islamiyya school.

Today, Muslim women across various countries actively pursue higher education. The growing empowerment and availability of educational opportunities for Muslim women in countries with the highest Muslim populations, such as Indonesia, Pakistan, India and Nigeria, highlight the ongoing support within Islam for female education, and counters the misconception - often rooted in cultural practices rather than Islamic doctrine—that Islam restricts women's access to learning.

The legacy of women like Aisha (May Allah be pleased with her) continues to inspire and affirm that education is a fundamental right for all, deeply embedded in Islamic tradition.

Misconception #5: Women are not allowed to work.

Contrary to popular belief, there is no verse in the Quran that forbids women from working. Women in Islam are allowed to work, provided their work environment adheres to the principles outlined in the Quran and Sahih Hadith. Key factors include maintaining modesty and ensuring the workplace is in a respectful setting that aligns with Islamic values.

It is important to recognize that Islam ensures financial security for women. They are not obliged to work for a living, as it is the duty of men to provide financially.

The Quran clearly states in Surah An-Nisa, Verse 34, that men are the protectors and maintainers of women.

However, if a woman decides to work in a field that complies with Islamic teachings, she has full rights over her earnings. She is not obligated to contribute financially to the household and can keep her income entirely for herself.

While Islam ensures women's financial security, it does not restrict their personal development or right to work.

In conclusion, the common misconceptions about women's rights in Islam often come from misunderstandings or misrepresentations of Islamic teachings. By relying on authentic sources like the Quran and Hadith, it becomes clear that Islam places significant importance on the dignity, rights, and roles of women. It is crucial to separate cultural practices from religious principles to fully appreciate the rights granted to women in Islam and to correct the misconceptions that often cloud the public's understanding of the faith.

JazakAllah Khair for taking the time to read this post.

I hope you found the information helpful and interesting. Stay tuned for more insightful content!

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh