Chapter II
STATUS OF WOMEN IN ISLAM
MEN AND WOMEN:
In different countries and in different eras women have been viewed differently. Women have been designated as aspersion on purity of man in the west, in Rome as furniture, in Greece as devils, In the Torah as permanent curses and in Christian church as hurdles to human development. Idolaters and even the Christians accepted women as goddesses. However, Islam’s view is very different. Islam designated females as the ‘Flowers of Paradise ‘, ‘Aroma of Civilization’ and ‘Symbols of beauty of Mankind ‘. The great rebel poet of Bengal, the poet laureate of Bangladesh, Kazi Nazrul Islam, wrote:“Exquisite and auspicious in this world, whatever,
Accomplished by men and women together.”
Allah the Sustainer, the Protector of the Worlds created human beings and divided them in two types, males and females. He created them equals in every respect. God, the Creator of the Worlds, created Adam and Eve, as male and female with the common mission to propagate the human race. Other than the distinction as the male and the female, He has made no exception in them, as they were created from the same basic elements.
In the Qurän God said,
1. O MANKIND! REVERENCE YOUR GUARDIAN-LORD, WHO CREATED YOU FROM A SINGLE PERSON, CREATED, OF LIKE NATURE, HIS MATE, AND FROM THEM TWAIN SCATTERED (LIKE SEEDS) COUNTLESS MEN AND WOMEN; - (AL-QURÄN - 4:1).
God said,
2. AND AMONG HIS SIGNS IS THIS, THAT HE CREATED YOUR MATES FROM AMONG YOURSELVES, THAT YE MAY DWELL IN TRANQUILLITY WITH THEM, AND HE HAS PUT LOVE AND MERCY BETWEEN YOUR (HEARTS): VERILY IN THAT ARE SIGNS FOR THOSE WHO REFLECT. (AL-QURÄN - 30: 21).
Women have been the source of peace and happiness on this earth. That they are created from the same elements as men is clearly stated in the Qurän. They are not equals only in this world, but in hereafter, as well. The only yardstick of measuring greatness is their good deeds. Allah said,
3. IF ANY DO DEEDS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, - BE THEY MALE OR AND FEMALE - AND HAVE FAITH, THEY WILL ENTER HEAVEN, AND NOT THE LEAST INJUSTICE WILL BE DONE TO THEM. (AL-QURÄN - 4: 124).
They have been made complementary to each other, not subordinate to any one or the other. Each kind is invested with an overwhelming proclivity to attract the other. This mutual attraction is so great that they cannot live apart in peace and happiness. Often this natural loving and caring relationship are destroyed, because of the desire to dominate the other. As the males are physically stronger, women fall prey to this ominous desire, more often than not
For ages, women have been treated as cattle and as objects of enjoyment. They have never been recognized as individual entities before Islam. Islam is the first religious order, which has recognized woman as a separate being with a mind and soul. No religious leaders or social reformers, before Muhammad has been able to emancipate women so completely, bestowing great honour on them.
Promiscuity in both men and women was castigated by the society. It was considered chivalrous to marry women by kidnapping. At the request of the brothers-in-law, widows abandoned the pyre and cremated their husbands. Daughters were universally unwanted. Pregnant women and their relations kept praying for male infants. Rich and the powerful had many wives and concubines. The victor enslaved the vanquished. Female members of the dead in a war were forced to become concubines. Sexual immorality was pervasive and shamelessly unrestrained. Orphan female child was considered ominous.
As outrageous dowry demanded by the groom for marrying a girl, the less affluent could not marry their daughters. These daughters were taken to the marriage market, where a prospective groom or his relatives could even inspect them without any robes. If so desired the girls could be kept for a few nights before a decision was taken.1 It was common for the relatives to pray for a male child when a woman became pregnant.
Manu, the author of the basic precepts of Hinduism wrote, “Women will surrender themselves to their keeper (Men), in all circumstances.” Man on the pretext of religious canons governed the woman irrespective of her status of being a virgin, widow or married. Women had no rights or status in the society. At primitive stage of the Indian Civilization, women were treated as slaves.
Manu the Hindu sage said,
For ages, women have been treated as cattle and as objects of enjoyment. They have never been recognized as individual entities before Islam. Islam is the first religious order, which has recognized woman as a separate being with a mind and soul. No religious leaders or social reformers, before Muhammad has been able to emancipate women so completely, bestowing great honour on them.
WOMEN IN OTHER RELIGIONS:
WOMEN IN HINDUISM:
In the age of Veda, Hindu social system was paternal, where the father was the head of the family. Inheritance laws were created for the males, and for ages, females were totally ignored. Though females enjoyed some very limited rights, they were virtually left to the mercy of the males. “In the ancient times many females remained spinsters in their father’s home. While the male wards stayed with their teachers and took classes, the females did the household chores at their father’s home. Exorbitant dowry was required to marry a daughter, and so, many remained unmarried. After marriage they lost all the rights to their father’s property, therefore, the brothers took extra pain to marry them. Many married their husband’s younger brothers on their deaths. Therefore, they are called Debars (Second Husband). Polygamy was common among men.”Promiscuity in both men and women was castigated by the society. It was considered chivalrous to marry women by kidnapping. At the request of the brothers-in-law, widows abandoned the pyre and cremated their husbands. Daughters were universally unwanted. Pregnant women and their relations kept praying for male infants. Rich and the powerful had many wives and concubines. The victor enslaved the vanquished. Female members of the dead in a war were forced to become concubines. Sexual immorality was pervasive and shamelessly unrestrained. Orphan female child was considered ominous.
As outrageous dowry demanded by the groom for marrying a girl, the less affluent could not marry their daughters. These daughters were taken to the marriage market, where a prospective groom or his relatives could even inspect them without any robes. If so desired the girls could be kept for a few nights before a decision was taken.1 It was common for the relatives to pray for a male child when a woman became pregnant.
Manu, the author of the basic precepts of Hinduism wrote, “Women will surrender themselves to their keeper (Men), in all circumstances.” Man on the pretext of religious canons governed the woman irrespective of her status of being a virgin, widow or married. Women had no rights or status in the society. At primitive stage of the Indian Civilization, women were treated as slaves.
Manu the Hindu sage said,
1. WOMEN SHALL NEVER ENJOY INDEPENDENCE. MEN SHALL ALWAYS KEEP THEM UNDER THEIR CONTROL (5-148).
2. IN HINDUISM, WOMEN HAVE NO RELIGIOUS, PROFESSIONAL OR SPIRITUAL RIGHTS. SHE HAS NO RIGHT TO TRY OR STRIVE TO EARN VIRTUE OR WEALTH AND GRATIFY DESIRE (4,2-11).
3. WOMEN SHALL NOT TALK IN FRONT OF OTHERS; SHOULD NOT BE GRANTED FREEDOM FOR A MOMENT; SHALL NOT ENJOY RESPITE EXCEPT INSIDE THE HOUSEHOLD (3,2-39,43).
4. WIVES CANNOT BE ALLOWED TO ACCOMPANY OTHERS: THEY ARE THE SOURCE OF ALL MISFORTUNES (3,2,240,241).
5. WOMAN IS CREATED TO PROCREATE; WITHOUT THE HUSBAND SHE IS NOTHING; WHATEVER, HE SAYS, THE WOMAN SHOULD ABIDE BY THAT, IRRESPECTIVE OF RIGHT OR WRONG.
6. IT IS THE NATURE OF WOMEN TO DEFILE MEN IN THIS WORLD (2-213).
7. SLEEPING, DRESSING AND RESTING, PASSION, ANGER, SPITE AND MALICIOUS BEHAVIOUR ARE ALL CHARACTERISTICS OF WOMEN (9-17).
8. IN VIRGINITY THE FATHER, IN THE YOUTH THE HUSBAND AND IN THE OLD AGE THE SON WILL PROTECT A WOMAN. IN NONE OF THE STATES, SHE SHALL BE INDEPENDENT.
2. IN HINDUISM, WOMEN HAVE NO RELIGIOUS, PROFESSIONAL OR SPIRITUAL RIGHTS. SHE HAS NO RIGHT TO TRY OR STRIVE TO EARN VIRTUE OR WEALTH AND GRATIFY DESIRE (4,2-11).
3. WOMEN SHALL NOT TALK IN FRONT OF OTHERS; SHOULD NOT BE GRANTED FREEDOM FOR A MOMENT; SHALL NOT ENJOY RESPITE EXCEPT INSIDE THE HOUSEHOLD (3,2-39,43).
4. WIVES CANNOT BE ALLOWED TO ACCOMPANY OTHERS: THEY ARE THE SOURCE OF ALL MISFORTUNES (3,2,240,241).
5. WOMAN IS CREATED TO PROCREATE; WITHOUT THE HUSBAND SHE IS NOTHING; WHATEVER, HE SAYS, THE WOMAN SHOULD ABIDE BY THAT, IRRESPECTIVE OF RIGHT OR WRONG.
6. IT IS THE NATURE OF WOMEN TO DEFILE MEN IN THIS WORLD (2-213).
7. SLEEPING, DRESSING AND RESTING, PASSION, ANGER, SPITE AND MALICIOUS BEHAVIOUR ARE ALL CHARACTERISTICS OF WOMEN (9-17).
8. IN VIRGINITY THE FATHER, IN THE YOUTH THE HUSBAND AND IN THE OLD AGE THE SON WILL PROTECT A WOMAN. IN NONE OF THE STATES, SHE SHALL BE INDEPENDENT.
Vishnu says,
9. WOMAN IS A THING OF GRATIFICATION AND DEEDS DRAWN BY WOMEN ARE NOT VALID (7-10).
10. WOMEN DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT TO OWNERSHIP (4-11).
11. IF SHE DIES WITHOUT LIQUIDATING A LOAN, SHE WILL BE REBORN AS A FOUR FOOTED ANIMAL (4,5,2-579,480).
10. WOMEN DO NOT HAVE THE RIGHT TO OWNERSHIP (4-11).
11. IF SHE DIES WITHOUT LIQUIDATING A LOAN, SHE WILL BE REBORN AS A FOUR FOOTED ANIMAL (4,5,2-579,480).
In this way in the days of Veda, women were equated with animals and treated as such.
It was said that due to their inherent incoherence of intelligence even a sane woman could not be a witness (8-77). Shukracharjya says, “Woman like a gambler-thief cannot be innocent.” Here women have been compared with thieves!”
According to the Hindu law, men can marry at will as many wives as he wishes, but women are forbidden to marry more than once in a lifetime. In ancient India starting with Sri Krishna and Indra to Rajas and Maharajahs, it was common to take many wives. Some had hundreds of wives. Most of them had hundreds of concubines to gratify their insatiable lust. On the contrary, women were supposed to live and die for their husbands, if even he was a despotic philanderer or a debauched drunkard. They had no right to religion and prayer, and as such, they had no way to get forgiveness for their sins. According to Hindu religious Gurus, they even had no right to the creators’ compassion. Woman who remained completely faithful to her husband, all the life, in spite of denials and deprivations, was extolled as the incarnation of piety. They absolutely had no socio-economic, cultural and inheritance rights. While marriage was a lifelong bond, men were allowed to marry if widowed, but widows were not allowed to remarry. Widows were treated as the lowest of the low in the society and were considered as a burden by the family and the relatives. Perhaps, to release them from this inhuman inferno, religious leaders invented self-immolation of widows, at the pyre, with their dead husbands. This also necessitated, according to Greek historians, because deaths of husbands due to poisoning by their wives reached an alarming proportion. Since the daughters had no right of inheritance, outrageous dowry was needed to marry them. Therefore, as a measure of relief, female infanticide became widespread. Though the Brahmins had the exclusive right to religion and to the scriptures, even their women were not allowed to recite from the Holy Scriptures. They were treated as the untouchable. The loving mother, daughter, sister and beloved wife had no social standing. They had no say in the choice of husbands. Even today, the condition remains largely the same, in the largest democracy of the world, India, the cradle of Hinduism.
WOMEN AND THE ROMAN CIVILIZATION:
Even during the peak of the Roman Civilization, women were not better treated than they were in India. They were very dependent and lived under the tutelage of their fathers, brothers, sons or other male relatives. Their lives were passed in virtual slavery. Concerning marriage they were very dependent on their guardians, and were forced to marry men, even if, they were absolutely, unworthy of them. They had no right to conclude agreements, to adopt, guardianship, to be a protector, witness or guarantor (Encyclopaedia of Britannica). To the Scandinavian nations in Europe, married or unmarried women were under a permanent protection scheme. If any women had married without the permission of her protector, the protector had the right to enjoy her property during the lifetime of his ward. On marriage, the property of a woman went to her husband and he was free to enjoy such property at his sweet will (The Encyclopaedia of America).WOMEN IN BUDDHISM:
Women were living in a deplorable condition under the Buddhist civilization. They were no better than they were under the Hindu religion or any other system. The Buddha himself had shown great contempt for women by leaving behind his young wife and infant child to embrace celibacy and monk-hood. According to him, women hinder the liberation of human soul. His disciples following him held women in great contempt. One Chinese monk declared that to advance in life one should act against the advice of women. There is no evidence of respect for women in the Buddhist culture. They were no better off than they were under the ancient Hindu religion and culture. The birth of female child was scorned upon while a male birth was a matter of great celebration and honour.In the same time in Japan, the birth of a female child was vilified as ignoble. In Japan or in China like Hinduism, women had no rights or liberty. They were not free to move outside or allowed into the temples. Cohabitation without marriage was common. Since, marriage was prohibited for priests, immoral sexual activities took root in the temples. Free and easily accessible sex in the temples loosened the institution of marriage in the society. Buddhism taking birth in the cradle of Hinduism, could not establish female freedom: like the Hindu religion.
WOMEN IN JUDAISM:
According to the Jewish faith, women are the main cause of transgression. She would address her husband as the master under Judaism. The husband was not bound to take any measure to provide security and safety to his wife. A father could sell his daughter in temporary slavery and usually she would become a concubine. If the husband even without any foundation brought any accusation against his wife’s character, the father-in-law was bound to requite (Deut 22-21). If the daughter is over aged, the Talmud prescribes marriage with a freed slave. The father, if deemed it fit, could marry his married daughter to another man. The Jewish could marry as many times as they wished and could keep concubines. Women were referred to along with cattle (Deut. 10th Commandment). One could divorce his wife on the pretext of lack of chastity (Deut. 241). On the other hand, the woman was sentenced to death, if her parents could not satisfy the elders by providing proof of her modesty. In every respect, man took precedence over woman. The female would only inherit her father’s property, if there were no male issues. Mother was second to the father, in the Jewish religion (Deut. 5 - 16). Because of this inferior status of women, there is no reference to any great woman in the Jewish history.WOMEN IN CHRISTIANITY:
Taking the cue from Jesus Christ, who was a bachelor, and listening to the glorification of Paradise from him, Christians naturally felt inclined to celibacy. At the height of their debasement, women were squarely blamed for all the ills of the world. The Christians believed that Adam ate the forbidden 'Apple' at the instigation of Eve and that caused their fall from Paradise, otherwise, human race would have been living in Paradise in utter bliss and happiness. Women were viewed as the door to all evils and transgressions, in Christianity. Christian priests styled women as the 'Organ of the Devil'. They were likened to poisonous scorpions, ready to sting.John Stuart Mill in his article ‘Subjection of Women’ wrote: “We have repeatedly been told that civilization and Christianity have established women’s due rights and liberated women, but we see in practice that the wife has been reduced to nothing but a maid of her husband, at least, in the eyes of the law.” David and Vera Match, in their book entitled: ‘Marriage - East and West’ wrote, “Christian Padres, on more occasions than anybody else, have maligned women and debased them.” The famous historian, Lake says, “The laughable effort by a group of priests to debase and malign women clearly shows that the civilized society, specially, the Christians could not assure the right place for women in the society. In the opinion of Christian theologians, woman is the door to hell and is the source of all evils.” They also say that women should be ashamed, that they are women. She must always live in repentance, since she is a curse for the world. At the instigation of the Devil, she has beguiled Adam to take the apple for which she has been styled as ‘WOMAN’, meaning Woe to Man. Christian clerics have always derided women and called them with debasing diminutive epithets. Saint Tartulian said, “All women are Eves.” It is said in animals, women are the most dangerous, comparing women with animals. Woman is the doorway to all evils as she uncovered the 'forbidden tree'. She is the violator of God's order and most detrimental to human beings. God's curse continues on them even today, it is their fate. They should be ashamed for their dresses, since they are reminiscent of human fall from the 'Paradise'. They should be ashamed of their beauty as that is the basic provocation to vices. Women are necessarily the basic transgression and anathema. Saint Freistrom said, "Woman is an essential obsession, a natural provocation, a burden, a household embarrassment and embodiment of vice. Saint Paul said, "Let the women remain silent, I cannot let them speak. She is like the poison of a winged serpent." Saint Micreas said, "Women are extremely poisonous serpents." In the opinion of Saint Anthony, 'women are like scorpions, ever ready to bite'. The great Saint Gregory said, "Women are an amalgamation of the devious Bumblebee and the fearsome Python. Saint Jerome said, "Woman is the way to 'Evil' through their devilishness and is like the bite of a Scorpion." Saint Bernhard said, "Women are the spokesperson of the Devil and she opened the door to sufferings for the human race."
In this manner, almost all the Christian saints and savants lavishly disparaged women. In their opinion, women should perpetually mourn their role as the harbinger of curse for this world. Still today, it is a matter of contention in Christian religion, if women, who are profane, have souls, if they have the right to paradise or if they are at all human beings. After an intensive research in 601 AD, at a religious gathering of Macaulay, it was decided that women would go to heaven but at that time, they would be cleansed of basic womanly characters. In the hereafter, they would transform into a special being devoid of womanhood. She is the eater of forbidden fruit and thus is the reason for human misery. She is the violator of God's will, thus the human race is punished with death, and so Christ had to die. If not inspired by Satan, they would not have such courage as to defy God. In this way, the Christian Church has always belittled women. They bear the burden of all types of disparaging, belittling and derogatory names. The Church even forfeited whatever little rights they enjoyed before and disrobed them of any respect. Where the Romans were advancing women's cause through enacting laws, Christianity was constantly berating them. They were even enjoying much less privileges compared to the heathen Rome. By the Christian religious cannons shackled women in prohibitions. In Christianity, it became impossible for women to own any property. They were only qualified to get married or to become nuns. Christian males with the help of the law degraded and deprived women of all rights and forced them into a miserable state of life.
Christian religious leaders engaged into war against nature by glorifying celibacy. The relationship created through sacred nuptial ties for the survival of the human race has been discouraged as profane and defamed as the reason for Adam's fall from Paradise. Abstinence was hallowed. Christian priests prohibited love and affection that grows in marital bond and ultimately contribute to building a happy society. They were not even prepared to consider the benefits of marriage. Though they recognized marriage as the shield against vices, they thought it an imperative to shun marriage to attain divinity. Saint Jerome urged to axe marriage by celibacy. Resultantly, scores of males and females took residence in the religious cloisters. Consequently, such residences increased rapidly. Subsequently, like the Buddhist missions, Christian cloisters became worse sanctuary of vice than the brothels. In a marriage, if one partner falls into the whirlwind of extra zeal of religion the strain disrupts the happy union. They live separately within the bond of marriage, thus defeating the whole purpose of marriage.
After becoming, a father of two issues Saint Millers started living separately from his wife. Saint Malachi after pleading with his wife for long convinced her to sleep in a separate bed. Saint Abraham fled from the conjugal bed. On the night of marriage, Saint Amman, sermonizing his consort on the demerits of marriage, convinced her to live separately. Saint Gregory wrote an inspiring hymn on virginity. Henry the second, Edward of England and Almadi the second of Spain married in name only. In Christianity, marriage is final and irreversible irrespective of absence of any conjugal relationship in the marriage. Many sects of Christianity have done away with it and state laws have recognized divorce in almost all Christian Nations. The Bible says, "What therefore God hath joined together let not man put asunder (St. Mark 10:9)." Christian clerics declared divorce as a sin. The state taking lead from religious cannons enacted oppressive laws to shackle women and forced them to lowly lives.
There grew wrong perceptions about women because of all this erratic cannons against women. Not before the end of nineteenth century, these inequality and repressive doctrines were challenged. During the French Revolution, the leaders for the first time recognized equal shares of daughters and sons in their fathers' properties, but did not mention wives' right in their husbands' properties. Through laws enacted in 1870 and 1882, married daughters achieved the right to property, similarly, the unmarried and the divorced were granted rights to property. In the United Kingdom, because of their role in the Industrial Revolution and the Second World War, Christian women earned political and social rights. However, religion has no role in all these advancement. The modern way of life has no likeness to Christianity.
In the West, women were looked down upon from the Grecian time. JP Mahaffy in his book entitled 'Greek Life and Thoughts' wrote, "In the civilized era except Plato all other scholars said that women should be deprived of education and kept as slaves confined to their homes." Aristotle said very strongly that women are inferior to men. In spite of the rise of Christianity women for centuries remained as slaves in the West. Not only in the society but also in their own family they had no honour or dignity. At the footnote of page 222 of the book ‘'The Mothers’, it is said that in the Nineteenth century England, selling women was very normal. At that time, the price was only five Shillings. Miss EA Heckers in her book 'A Story of Women Rights' at page 1818 wrote: "Even in 1941 beating wives were common and normal in England." DL Hobman in his 'Studies in the Emancipation of Women' wrote, "Wives were dipped in water with their hairs tied, and if they protested, they were bridled like horses, gagged and punished. In Russia, fathers would give their son-in-laws lashes for using on their daughters. It would hang on the walls of the newly-wed's room, and for even minor faults, the bride was whipped. EW Hall in his 'Women in Soviet Russia' wrote, "If wives did not submit to their husbands they were whipped." 'Chickens are not birds and women are not human' is a Russian proverb. Until just before the Second World War women's condition in France, Germany and other European countries were not satisfactory in comparison to other accomplishments of modern era. Even in the first half of the twentieth century, women of the Christian Europe were lagging far behind in education and culture. In the leading countries of the civilized twentieth century like Britain, Germany and France, even in the third decade, no particular efforts were made to educate women. DL Hobman in his 'Studies in the Emancipation of Women' wrote, "Women would not get admission in Oxford and Cambridge even after World War II." It was the situation in France and Germany. The USA in the western countries first raised the demand for female education. That demand reverberated in England but before that, none thought about female education. None of the greats like, Shakespeare, Milton and Rousseau or other scholars and philosophers championed female education. There was no demand for female education until before the Second World War. Even after the 'French Revolution' and 'Industrial Revolution’, women were not established in the society. Educated men had no respect for women. As such would not tolerate them in any educational commission, board or committee, constituted for development of education. It is stated in 'Women Suffrage in Many Lands, by Zimmern that in 1840 all members (all were males) of the Anti-slavery Convention Committee of Europe resigned because of the inclusion of a female member in the American delegation. Therefore, the USA was forced to withdraw its female member. During 1832-1942, appalling pictures were projected before various committees about female-labour in the west.
When in Europe women were so neglected, they were enjoying liberty in every field in the Muslim world. As a result, they contributed to all fields of intellectual activities as well as in the public, private and social sphere. History bears witness to their successful endeavours throughout the Muslim world comprising Turkey, Egypt, most of the North Western Africa, the whole of Middle East, Iran, Central Asia, the Indian sub-continent, South East Asia and the Far East. They also enjoyed similar intellectual and professional liberties in Spain, next to the Dark-Age Europe.
WOMEN IN ARAB HEATHEN RELIGION:
Before the advent of Islam, the Arabs had descended to the lowest pit of barbarity. The society was in complete disarray and lawlessness prevailed everywhere. Women called the Wand of the Devil and thought to be inauspicious. They were sold like cattle in the market. Desecrating women was very common; they had no social security. Women were simply a commodity of enjoyment and philandering, used to fulfil the insatiable lust of lascivious man. Deprived of even the basic human honour and dignity, they lived a hellish life. After scrutinized by the buyers, they were sold freely in the markets. Debasing, dishonouring and defilement of women were common and almost normal. Female infanticide was widely practised. At the death of the master of the house, his son inherited all the female members of the household. They used their stepmothers and sometimes, even, mothers and widowed sisters as their concubines. Like the ancient Indian society, in the Arab land a woman were forced to have several husbands, if there was a dearth of females.The guardians of the Christian faith, in the name of religion, lived in celibacy. Many of them either persuaded their wives to live as celibates or left them, for the life of a hermit, all that in the name of religion. They impressed upon their female partners the importance of self-denial for spiritual development. In this way, they have negated the law of nature. Eulogizing chastity, they waged a war against the nature. Marriage, the sacred institution that is instituted by God, for the purpose of procreation, had been vilified as the cause of fall of Adam from grace. They have completely ignored the establishment of a peaceful, happy and congenial family life that instil many finer qualities in man. Religious leaders blinding themselves to all these positive influences discarded marriage at the altar of celibacy. Marriage, though they recognized as a tool to save people from many vices, they proclaimed as a hindrance to attaining sanctity. Saint Jeremy asked his followers to axe marriage with celibacy.
WOMEN AT THE ADVENT OF ISLAM:
Islam is the only religion that made man and woman equal. Islam has likened women to roses. Islam has raised the status of women tremendously to previously unheard of heights. From mere animals, without a soul, they have been recognized as human beings. This religion of God is the first to consecrate women and reaffirm their state in the society as mothers by declaring that heaven, for the children, lies at the feet of the mother. Motherhood had been glorified and given its true place. The civilized world before that had no conception of the lofty and important place of women in the society. Women for the first time, in the history of the human race, have been established and recognized as individuals with a soul and brain. That is why, we see women in Islam as playing the part of a counsellor, consoler, comforter, adviser and companion to man. We see those inspiring men and sharing their sorrows and happiness, as equal partners. Never before, in the history of the humankind this has happened. Islam has not only granted honourable status to women but also made humanized them, strictly and unequivocally, rejecting all the vilification against them. Islam has firmly established them as equals in the society.Describing the state of women in the pre-Islamic era, Hazrat Omar said, “In Mecca woman was looked down upon as base, the situation was a bit better in Medïna. After Islam Quränic messages were sent about women and we came to realize their importance (Bukhari).” The Prophet of Islam has said, “Man has been given the responsibility of protecting the family and he will answer for that, woman has been given the responsibility to manage the homestead and she will answer for that (Bukhari).” “Except for the special right you have no supremacy over women (Sunan-e-Ibn Maza).” Islam has granted women their right place beside men, whereas the Bible says, “If you want to walk safe then remove women, the obstacle - from the way. The Jewish considers women as a perpetual curse for the human race. Both the Christians and the Jewish consider woman as the thorn of the venomous tree of this earth. However, Islam attributes to women such adjectives as, ‘the Flower of Paradise’, ‘the Fountain of Serenity and Comfort’.
Low and pitiful state of women in the society tormented the Prophet endlessly. He tried to improve their lot along with all the people of the community. He worked relentlessly to establish women as equals of men in every respect. He firmly established women as a mother, a wife, a sister and a respectable human being. The respect, honour and status that the Prophet decreed for women raised them from the bottom of the society to the highest state. He declared that for children, paradise lies at the feet of their mother. This declaration is a clear manifestation of the eminent place that was granted to women. He had the greatest regard and respect for women. He told people to treat their wives with kindness and love. He declared a good wife is the best reward in this life. After Allah and His Prophet, the mother is the most qualified to be respected and honoured by her children. To establish daughters as equals to sons, in accordance with God’s wishes, he declared, “Anybody who treats his daughters with kindness and love and does not favour his sons to his daughters will go to heaven.” He also said, “To educate and rear female children, properly is a very pious deed.” To prepare women with proper education and training to establish them as respected citizens, the Prophet made education compulsory for all Muslims irrespective of gender and status. He urged Muslims to train servants properly in manners and etiquette. Under the guidance of the great Prophet, educated women were not at all behind men in their intellectual accomplishments.
In the pre-Islamic Arabia, it was most disgraceful to become a father of a female child. In India, female infants were drowned in the river. Widows were forced to die with their husbands at the pyre. Hindu philosophers, intellectuals, in spite of their earnest efforts, could not stop the practice. Later, the government was forced to ban the practice by law, and though it is not practised in India, it still enjoys support among the fundamentalists. The Prophet long ago outlawed the practice, denouncing it as a loathsome act.
God, through the Prophet, has said,
4. OH MANKIND REVERENCE YOUR GUARDIAN LORD, WHO CREATED YOU FROM A SINGLE PERSON, CREATED, OF LIKE NATURE, HIS MATE, AND FROM THEM TWAIN SCATTERED (LIKE SEEDS) COUNTLESS MEN AND WOMEN; - (AL-QURÄN - 4:1).
The Qurän further says,
5. (HE IS) THE CREATOR OF THE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH: HE HAS MADE FOR YOU PAIRS FROM AMONG YOURSELVES, (AL-QURÄN - 42:11).
6. AND GOD HAS MADE FOR YOU MATES (AND COMPANIONS) OF YOUR OWN NATURE, AND MADE FOR YOU, OUT OF THEM, SONS AND DAUGHTERS AND GRANDCHILDREN, AND PROVIDED FOR YOU SUSTENANCE OF THE BEST: (AL-QURÄN - 16:72).
As a confirmation of this basic theme, the Qurän again states:
7. IT IS HE WHO CREATED YOU FROM A SINGLE PERSON, AND MADE MATE OF LIKE NATURE, IN ORDER THAT HE MIGHT DWELL WITH HER (IN LOVE). (AL-QURÄN - 7:189).
8. AND AMONG HIS SIGNS IS THIS THAT HE CREATED FOR YOU MATES FROM AMONG YOURSELVES, THAT YE MAY DWELL IN TRANQUILLITY WITH THEM, AL-QURÄN - 30:21).
9. EVERY SOUL WILL BE (HELD) IN PLEDGE FOR ITS DEEDS. (AL-QURÄN - 74:38).
10. AND THEIR LORD HATH ACCEPTED OF THEM, AND ANSWERED THEM: ‘NEVER WILL I SUFFER TO BE LOST THE WORK OF ANY OF YOU, BE HE MALE OR FEMALE: YE ARE MEMBERS, ONE OF ANOTHER:’ (AL-QURÄN - 3:195).
11. IF ANY DO DEEDS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, - BE THEY MALE OR FEMALE - AND HAVE FAITH, THEY WILL ENTER HEAVEN, AND NOT THE LEAST INJUSTICE WILL BE DONE TO THEM. (AL-QURÄN - 4:124).
12. WHOEVER WORKS RIGHTEOUSNESS, MEN OR WOMEN, AND HAS FAITH, VERILY, TO HIM WILL WE GIVE A NEW LIFE, A LIFE THAT IS GOOD AND PURE, AND WE WILL BESTOW ON SUCH THEIR REWARD ACCORDING TO THE BEST OF THEIR ACTIONS. (AL-QURÄN - 16:97).
6. AND GOD HAS MADE FOR YOU MATES (AND COMPANIONS) OF YOUR OWN NATURE, AND MADE FOR YOU, OUT OF THEM, SONS AND DAUGHTERS AND GRANDCHILDREN, AND PROVIDED FOR YOU SUSTENANCE OF THE BEST: (AL-QURÄN - 16:72).
As a confirmation of this basic theme, the Qurän again states:
7. IT IS HE WHO CREATED YOU FROM A SINGLE PERSON, AND MADE MATE OF LIKE NATURE, IN ORDER THAT HE MIGHT DWELL WITH HER (IN LOVE). (AL-QURÄN - 7:189).
8. AND AMONG HIS SIGNS IS THIS THAT HE CREATED FOR YOU MATES FROM AMONG YOURSELVES, THAT YE MAY DWELL IN TRANQUILLITY WITH THEM, AL-QURÄN - 30:21).
9. EVERY SOUL WILL BE (HELD) IN PLEDGE FOR ITS DEEDS. (AL-QURÄN - 74:38).
10. AND THEIR LORD HATH ACCEPTED OF THEM, AND ANSWERED THEM: ‘NEVER WILL I SUFFER TO BE LOST THE WORK OF ANY OF YOU, BE HE MALE OR FEMALE: YE ARE MEMBERS, ONE OF ANOTHER:’ (AL-QURÄN - 3:195).
11. IF ANY DO DEEDS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, - BE THEY MALE OR FEMALE - AND HAVE FAITH, THEY WILL ENTER HEAVEN, AND NOT THE LEAST INJUSTICE WILL BE DONE TO THEM. (AL-QURÄN - 4:124).
12. WHOEVER WORKS RIGHTEOUSNESS, MEN OR WOMEN, AND HAS FAITH, VERILY, TO HIM WILL WE GIVE A NEW LIFE, A LIFE THAT IS GOOD AND PURE, AND WE WILL BESTOW ON SUCH THEIR REWARD ACCORDING TO THE BEST OF THEIR ACTIONS. (AL-QURÄN - 16:97).
REBUTTAL OF ALLEGATIONS AGAINST EVE:
Islam has firmly established the equality between man and woman by strongly refuting the allegation brought against Eve by Christianity. The holy Qurän in unequivocal terms establishes that in the eyes of God man and woman are equal. Like Christianity, Islam has not blamed only Eve for the mistake of eating the forbidden fruit. According to the Qurän, both Adam and Eve are equally responsible; since, they were both repentant, God forgave them. The Qurän says,
13. THEN DID SATAN MAKE THEM SLIP FROM THE (GARDEN), AND GET THEM OUT OF THE STATE (OF FELICITY) IN WHICH THEY HAD BEEN (AL-QURÄN - 2:36).
PLACE OF WOMEN ACCORDING TO THE QURÄN AND AHADITH:
Man and woman are created equal according to Islam.
The Qurän says,
The Qurän says,
14. THEY ARE YOUR GARMENTS AND YE ARE THEIR GARMENTS (AL-QURÄN - 2:187).
15. AND WOMEN SHALL HAVE RIGHTS SIMILAR TO THE RIGHTS AGAINST THEM, ACCORDING TO WHAT IS EQUITABLE (AL-QURÄN - 2:228);
16. AND THEY HAVE THEREIN COMPANIONS PURE (AND HOLY); AND THEY ABIDE THEREIN (FOREVER) (AL-QURÄN - 2:25).
17. GARDENS OF PERPETUAL BLISS: THEY SHALL ENTER THERE, AS WELL AS THE RIGHTEOUS AMONG THEIR FATHERS, THEIR SPOUSES, AND THEIR OFFSPRING: AND ANGELS SHALL ENTER UNTO THEM FROM EVERY GATE (WITH SALUTATION): (AL-QURÄN - 13:23).
18. AND HE THAT WORKS A RIGHTEOUSNESS DEED - WHETHER MAN OR WOMAN - AND IS A BELIEVER - SUCH WILL ENTER GARDEN (OF BLISS): THEREIN WILL THEY HAVE ABUNDANCE WITHOUT MEASURE (AL-QURÄN - 40:40).
15. AND WOMEN SHALL HAVE RIGHTS SIMILAR TO THE RIGHTS AGAINST THEM, ACCORDING TO WHAT IS EQUITABLE (AL-QURÄN - 2:228);
16. AND THEY HAVE THEREIN COMPANIONS PURE (AND HOLY); AND THEY ABIDE THEREIN (FOREVER) (AL-QURÄN - 2:25).
17. GARDENS OF PERPETUAL BLISS: THEY SHALL ENTER THERE, AS WELL AS THE RIGHTEOUS AMONG THEIR FATHERS, THEIR SPOUSES, AND THEIR OFFSPRING: AND ANGELS SHALL ENTER UNTO THEM FROM EVERY GATE (WITH SALUTATION): (AL-QURÄN - 13:23).
18. AND HE THAT WORKS A RIGHTEOUSNESS DEED - WHETHER MAN OR WOMAN - AND IS A BELIEVER - SUCH WILL ENTER GARDEN (OF BLISS): THEREIN WILL THEY HAVE ABUNDANCE WITHOUT MEASURE (AL-QURÄN - 40:40).
The Prophet says,
“Oh my Lord! I attach much importance to the rights of two types of people, Orphans and Women (Nesai).”
Above quotations from the Qurän amply testifies to the status of women in Islam. The Prophet all his life urged his followers to abide by God’s instructions and personally never strayed from them. With his own words and deeds, he set examples for his companions. Whatever he preached, he practiced in his own life.
The Prophet, said, “You are all kings and queens in your own domains. Therefore, you are responsible for your subjects, as God will question you about them. Like the ruler of a country, men are the rulers of their households and women are to rule over their children.” He said, “He who is liked by his wife is the best among you.” In his own life, he was very kind to his wives. He honoured them and treated them with utmost kindness and love.
To behave properly and respectfully with parents is the second most important thing after prayers. The Qurän says, “Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him, and that ye be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honour.” Mothers have been elevated to the place after Allah and His Prophet. Muhammad was breast-fed by two ladies Suwaibah and Halima and he remained respectful to both of them all his life. He held them in great respect like his own mother.
The Qurän says that mothers should be treated kindly and respectfully. “And We have enjoined on man (To be good) to his parents: In travail upon travail Did his mother bear him, And in years twain Was his weaning: (hear The command), ‘Show gratitude to Me and to thy parents: To Me is thy final Goal’ (Al-Qurän - 31:14).” The Status of women is greatly elevated just by placing the mother after Allah and His Prophet. Once a man asked the Prophet, “Who is the nearest to me among all the people? Muhammad replied, “Your mother.” On being asked again, he replied, “Your mother.” When he was asked the same for the third time, he replied, “Your mother.” The fourth time, he replied “Your father” (Bukhari and Muslim). He again said, “For the children, Paradise is under the feet of their mothers.” No other religion has accorded such a great honour to mothers.
In Islam the gravest sin after shirk (Equating any other thing or person with God), is ‘irritating parents’. God will forgive man his sins, but children will be punished in this world for disobeying parents. The best way to atone for sins is to care for parents. “He who wants heaven, should earn the gratification of his parents,” said the Prophet. He again said, “For children their parents are the hell and heaven.” In this way, Islam is the very first religion that elevated women to the lofty state of honour and reverence. It recognized the role of women as the mother and wife, as very important and necessary. No other women can replace the love and care with which the mother cares of her child and teaches it. Fourteen hundred years ago God, in the Qurän stated the importance of breast-feeding for the infant, which the Prophet announced to the world.
Mother is the first spiritual guide and the teacher for the child. The Prophet much before anybody could think of it recognized the need for educated mothers to build a civilized nation. From the state of neglect and deprivation, women are brought to the forefront of the society. They are granted equal rights with their male counterparts. In every aspect of life, they are equal to the males. In the days of the Prophet, they were even allowed to take part in wars. In the battlefield, they took care of the wounded and the sick and gathered arrows for reusing them. Islam recognized the fact that there is no way to develop, if one part of the society remains in the dark. Therefore, equal emphasis was given to the development of both the parts. Realizing that a nation can only develop into a strong and viable nation, if all the members are equally trained and educated, the Prophet encouraged women to take part even in wars. He (PBUH) is the first to divide works in accordance with the physical and mental ability of both the sexes. Fourteen hundred years ago the Prophet therefore, constituted the first nursing corps.
Islam proscribes excessive actions, and prescribes middle course. Prohibition on total freedom of association and free mixing controlled and reined in irresponsible behaviour of both the sexes. Therefore, their association have been methodically restricted and systematized, because unhindered behaviour causes decadence of civilization rather than growth. As fire is kept away from the inflammable gasoline, so men and women are kept separate in Islam, with limited scope of interaction between the sexes. Free mixing diminishes womanly qualities in women, reduces their beauty and attractiveness and finally makes them shameless. Illicit liaison between the sexes is strictly forbidden in Islam.
The Qurän says,
“Oh my Lord! I attach much importance to the rights of two types of people, Orphans and Women (Nesai).”
Above quotations from the Qurän amply testifies to the status of women in Islam. The Prophet all his life urged his followers to abide by God’s instructions and personally never strayed from them. With his own words and deeds, he set examples for his companions. Whatever he preached, he practiced in his own life.
The Prophet, said, “You are all kings and queens in your own domains. Therefore, you are responsible for your subjects, as God will question you about them. Like the ruler of a country, men are the rulers of their households and women are to rule over their children.” He said, “He who is liked by his wife is the best among you.” In his own life, he was very kind to his wives. He honoured them and treated them with utmost kindness and love.
To behave properly and respectfully with parents is the second most important thing after prayers. The Qurän says, “Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him, and that ye be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honour.” Mothers have been elevated to the place after Allah and His Prophet. Muhammad was breast-fed by two ladies Suwaibah and Halima and he remained respectful to both of them all his life. He held them in great respect like his own mother.
The Qurän says that mothers should be treated kindly and respectfully. “And We have enjoined on man (To be good) to his parents: In travail upon travail Did his mother bear him, And in years twain Was his weaning: (hear The command), ‘Show gratitude to Me and to thy parents: To Me is thy final Goal’ (Al-Qurän - 31:14).” The Status of women is greatly elevated just by placing the mother after Allah and His Prophet. Once a man asked the Prophet, “Who is the nearest to me among all the people? Muhammad replied, “Your mother.” On being asked again, he replied, “Your mother.” When he was asked the same for the third time, he replied, “Your mother.” The fourth time, he replied “Your father” (Bukhari and Muslim). He again said, “For the children, Paradise is under the feet of their mothers.” No other religion has accorded such a great honour to mothers.
In Islam the gravest sin after shirk (Equating any other thing or person with God), is ‘irritating parents’. God will forgive man his sins, but children will be punished in this world for disobeying parents. The best way to atone for sins is to care for parents. “He who wants heaven, should earn the gratification of his parents,” said the Prophet. He again said, “For children their parents are the hell and heaven.” In this way, Islam is the very first religion that elevated women to the lofty state of honour and reverence. It recognized the role of women as the mother and wife, as very important and necessary. No other women can replace the love and care with which the mother cares of her child and teaches it. Fourteen hundred years ago God, in the Qurän stated the importance of breast-feeding for the infant, which the Prophet announced to the world.
Mother is the first spiritual guide and the teacher for the child. The Prophet much before anybody could think of it recognized the need for educated mothers to build a civilized nation. From the state of neglect and deprivation, women are brought to the forefront of the society. They are granted equal rights with their male counterparts. In every aspect of life, they are equal to the males. In the days of the Prophet, they were even allowed to take part in wars. In the battlefield, they took care of the wounded and the sick and gathered arrows for reusing them. Islam recognized the fact that there is no way to develop, if one part of the society remains in the dark. Therefore, equal emphasis was given to the development of both the parts. Realizing that a nation can only develop into a strong and viable nation, if all the members are equally trained and educated, the Prophet encouraged women to take part even in wars. He (PBUH) is the first to divide works in accordance with the physical and mental ability of both the sexes. Fourteen hundred years ago the Prophet therefore, constituted the first nursing corps.
VEIL (HIZAB) IN ISLAM:
Literally veil means cover. This cover, in Islam, separates the male and the female and restricts their free mixing. It applies to both the sexes. They are to exercise certain degree of restraints in dealing with the other sex. Certain definite parts of the body of both sexes are to remain covered. Veil acts as a deterrent to indecorous behaviour. Particularly, it protects women from being exposed as a commodity of lust and carnal desire. Therefore, it saves their dignity and honour. Islam has not permitted free mixing of the sexes. Controlled and decent behaviour is the way of Islam. In the name of female emancipation, Islam never recommends licentious and unrestricted demonstration of shamelessness. The current movement of female emancipation has crossed all the bounds and has degraded women by sacrificing womanhood at the altar of so-called freedom.Islam proscribes excessive actions, and prescribes middle course. Prohibition on total freedom of association and free mixing controlled and reined in irresponsible behaviour of both the sexes. Therefore, their association have been methodically restricted and systematized, because unhindered behaviour causes decadence of civilization rather than growth. As fire is kept away from the inflammable gasoline, so men and women are kept separate in Islam, with limited scope of interaction between the sexes. Free mixing diminishes womanly qualities in women, reduces their beauty and attractiveness and finally makes them shameless. Illicit liaison between the sexes is strictly forbidden in Islam.
The Qurän says,
19. THE WOMAN AND MAN GUILTY OF ADULTERY AND FORNICATION, FLOG EACH OF THEM WITH A HUNDRED STRIPES: LET NOT COMPASSION MOVE YOU IN THEIR CASE, IN A MATTER PRESCRIBED BY GOD, IF YE BELIEVE IN GOD AND THE LAST DAY (AL-QURÄN - 24:2):
20. SAY TO THE BELIEVING MEN THAT THEY SHOULD LOWER THEIR GAZE AND GUARD THEIR MODESTY: THAT WILL MAKE FOR GREATER PURITY FOR THEM: AND GOD IS WELL ACQUAINTED WITH ALL THAT THEY DO (AL-QURÄN - 24:30).
21. AND SAY TO THE BELIEVING WOMEN THAT THEY SHOULD LOWER THEIR GAZE AND GUARD THEIR MODESTY: THAT THEY SHOULD NOT DISPLAY THEIR BEAUTY AND ORNAMENTS EXCEPT WHAT (MUST ORDINARILY) APPEAR THEREOF; THAT THEY SHOULD DRAW THEIR VEILS OVER THEIR BOSOMS AND NOT DISPLAY THEIR BEAUTY EXCEPT TO THEIR HUSBANDS, THEIR FATHERS, THEIR HUSBANDS’ FATHERS, THEIR SONS, THEIR HUSBANDS’ SONS, THEIR BROTHERS AND THEIR BROTHERS’ SONS, OR THEIR SISTERS’ SONS, OR THEIR WOMEN, OR THE SLAVES WHOM THEIR RIGHT HANDS POSSESS, OR MALE SERVANTS FREE OF PHYSICAL NEEDS, OR SMALL CHILDREN WHO HAVE NO SENSE OF THE SHAME OF SEX; AND THAT THEY SHOULD NOT STRIKE THEIR FEET IN ORDER TO DRAW ATTENTION TO THEIR HIDDEN ORNAMENTS. AND O YE BELIEVERS! TURN YE ALL TOGETHER TOWARDS GOD THAT YE MAY ATTAIN BLISS (AL-QURÄN - 24:31).
22. O PROPHET! TELL THY WIVES AND DAUGHTERS AND THE BELIEVING WOMEN, THAT THEY SHOULD CAST THEIR OUTER GARMENTS OVER THEIR PERSONS (WHEN ABROAD): THAT IS MOST CONVENIENT, THAT THEY SHOULD BE KNOWN (AS SUCH) AND NOT MOLESTED AND GOD IS OFT-FORGIVING, MOST MERCIFUL (AL-QURÄN - 33:59).
20. SAY TO THE BELIEVING MEN THAT THEY SHOULD LOWER THEIR GAZE AND GUARD THEIR MODESTY: THAT WILL MAKE FOR GREATER PURITY FOR THEM: AND GOD IS WELL ACQUAINTED WITH ALL THAT THEY DO (AL-QURÄN - 24:30).
21. AND SAY TO THE BELIEVING WOMEN THAT THEY SHOULD LOWER THEIR GAZE AND GUARD THEIR MODESTY: THAT THEY SHOULD NOT DISPLAY THEIR BEAUTY AND ORNAMENTS EXCEPT WHAT (MUST ORDINARILY) APPEAR THEREOF; THAT THEY SHOULD DRAW THEIR VEILS OVER THEIR BOSOMS AND NOT DISPLAY THEIR BEAUTY EXCEPT TO THEIR HUSBANDS, THEIR FATHERS, THEIR HUSBANDS’ FATHERS, THEIR SONS, THEIR HUSBANDS’ SONS, THEIR BROTHERS AND THEIR BROTHERS’ SONS, OR THEIR SISTERS’ SONS, OR THEIR WOMEN, OR THE SLAVES WHOM THEIR RIGHT HANDS POSSESS, OR MALE SERVANTS FREE OF PHYSICAL NEEDS, OR SMALL CHILDREN WHO HAVE NO SENSE OF THE SHAME OF SEX; AND THAT THEY SHOULD NOT STRIKE THEIR FEET IN ORDER TO DRAW ATTENTION TO THEIR HIDDEN ORNAMENTS. AND O YE BELIEVERS! TURN YE ALL TOGETHER TOWARDS GOD THAT YE MAY ATTAIN BLISS (AL-QURÄN - 24:31).
22. O PROPHET! TELL THY WIVES AND DAUGHTERS AND THE BELIEVING WOMEN, THAT THEY SHOULD CAST THEIR OUTER GARMENTS OVER THEIR PERSONS (WHEN ABROAD): THAT IS MOST CONVENIENT, THAT THEY SHOULD BE KNOWN (AS SUCH) AND NOT MOLESTED AND GOD IS OFT-FORGIVING, MOST MERCIFUL (AL-QURÄN - 33:59).
It is learned from a narration that once Hazrat Asma, a daughter of Abu Bakr came to visit her younger sister, Ummul Muminin Hazrat Ayesha and was in her room. Muhammad entering the room saw that the guest’s body was not covered properly, so he turned his face and said, “Any lady coming of age cannot reveal any part of her body except this:” saying that he indicated to his face and hands (Al-Tarabi and Muslim). On another occasion seeing a woman in very thin dress the Prophet said, “Only those wear this kind of dress that do not believe Al-Qurän - Süra Nur.”
These sayings clearly show the importance of keeping women’s body covered. In Islam, the system of segregation is to keep the male and the female separated, so that corruption and indecency do not creep into the social fabric. Many a civilization was totally ruined due to unrestrained lasciviousness.
Nevertheless, that in no way means that the fair sex should be confined within the confines of the four walls. Duly dressed women can move as freely as their counterparts can. Islam forbids strictly close contacts between sexes. A Muslim woman can chose any profession she desires, provided the code of mixing is not breached. There are numerous instances where the Muslim women have taken part in wars.
In pre-Islamic age women, all over the world in almost all-religious faith led a secluded life. They were nothing more than the objects of sex and enjoyment and were treated like cattle and other worldly possessions by men. Greek, Indian, Persian, Roman, Chinese or Japanese all led a life hardly imaginable today.
The natural need of physical satisfaction has not been discouraged in Islam, as it is a practical religion, unlike Christianity, Hinduism or other religions. Muhammad has said, “Celibacy is not my way.” Human beings can only be saved by living through the trials and tribulations of family life from some vices. The union of marriage not only legalizes sex between the two sexes, but also promotes disciplined life style and ensures propagation of the human race. It also imposes duties on both the parties. At different time on different occasions the Prophet has categorically, asked his disciples to enter the bond of marriage. He repeatedly denied permission to his disciples to lead a celibate’s life. Muhammad said, “He who waits in the Mosque for prayers is the best Ascetic.”
Unlike the other religions, marriage in Islam is a social contract, based on equality and consent of both the parties. In Islam, none can be imposed on the other, as a husband or wife, against his or her will. Both man and woman have equal rights of choice. Not even the father, the mother or any other guardian can force anybody to marry against his or her wish. The Qurän says,
23. MARRY THOSE AMONG YOU WHO ARE SINGLE, OR THE VIRTUOUS ONES AMONG YOUR SLAVES, MALE OR FEMALE: IF THEY ARE IN POVERTY, GOD WILL GIVE THEM MEANS OUT OF HIS GRACE: FOR GOD ENCOMPASSETH ALL, AND HE KNOWETH ALL THINGS (AL-QURÄN - 24:32).
Muhammad said, “Manners and gentility, using perfumes, cleaning tooth and marriage are four important acts of prophets.” Abu Huraira quotes the Prophet as saying: “He who enters into marriage to live a pious life is qualified to receive God’s help (Tirmizi).”
Three companions of the Prophet once presumed that it is necessary to worship God generously. Therefore, one said, “I will worship God all the night.” The second said, “I will fast all my life.” The third said, “I will worship God remaining a celibate without entangling myself in the family life.” At this point, the Prophet of God entered the scene and said, “Remember! By God, I fear God more than you fear, and keep within limits and sanctity more than you do, and yet I fast and go without fasting as well. I pray in the late nights, sleep and live with my wives. These are my ways and those that will not abide by my ways are not counted in my group (Bukhari).”
The Prophet once told Ali (RA: “Never dilly-dally in three matters: a) Prayers, when is necessary, b) Funeral prayers c) and marrying the unmarried when compatible partners are found” (Tirmizi). The Prophet said, “In the union of marriage the love and affection that engender and flourish between the husband and the wife is unique (Ibn Maza).” Ibn Abbas quotes the Prophet as saying, “Islam does not recognize antipathy to marriage” (Abu-Dawood). Ali, the fourth Caliph said, “In the wealth that God bestowed on man, there is nothing more important than a pious wife after the Faith” (Hadith).
Othman, the son of Mawuz, once requested the Prophet: “O Prophet, give me permission to leave this domestic life to live in celibacy.” The Prophet answered: “No, for my followers leaving the domestic life is not permitted and those that leave are not included in my group. To fight for the cause of God is the best sacrifice for my followers.” Then Othman requested the permission to live as a celibate. The Prophet replied, “Those in my group lead a domestic life and wait in the mosque for prayers are the best Hermits.”
From the above it is amply proven that Islam does not approve of celibacy. It has on the contrary given a better status to married life, over an ascetic’s life. In Islam marriage is a social and domestic bond, which legalizes physical relation between the sexes by a practicable and natural covenant. No similar agreements are found in any other religion. This is the way of the Prophet. Unlike Christianity, marriage has not been discouraged in Islam.
These sayings clearly show the importance of keeping women’s body covered. In Islam, the system of segregation is to keep the male and the female separated, so that corruption and indecency do not creep into the social fabric. Many a civilization was totally ruined due to unrestrained lasciviousness.
Nevertheless, that in no way means that the fair sex should be confined within the confines of the four walls. Duly dressed women can move as freely as their counterparts can. Islam forbids strictly close contacts between sexes. A Muslim woman can chose any profession she desires, provided the code of mixing is not breached. There are numerous instances where the Muslim women have taken part in wars.
In pre-Islamic age women, all over the world in almost all-religious faith led a secluded life. They were nothing more than the objects of sex and enjoyment and were treated like cattle and other worldly possessions by men. Greek, Indian, Persian, Roman, Chinese or Japanese all led a life hardly imaginable today.
MARRIAGE IN ISLAM:
In Islam marriage is a social contract between the husband and the wife, entered upon at the complete free will of the two. The purpose of marriage is to make a bridge between the two parts of the society, to make a union of two hearts, where they can fulfil their emotional need and physical requirements to lead a harmonious and peaceful life.The natural need of physical satisfaction has not been discouraged in Islam, as it is a practical religion, unlike Christianity, Hinduism or other religions. Muhammad has said, “Celibacy is not my way.” Human beings can only be saved by living through the trials and tribulations of family life from some vices. The union of marriage not only legalizes sex between the two sexes, but also promotes disciplined life style and ensures propagation of the human race. It also imposes duties on both the parties. At different time on different occasions the Prophet has categorically, asked his disciples to enter the bond of marriage. He repeatedly denied permission to his disciples to lead a celibate’s life. Muhammad said, “He who waits in the Mosque for prayers is the best Ascetic.”
Unlike the other religions, marriage in Islam is a social contract, based on equality and consent of both the parties. In Islam, none can be imposed on the other, as a husband or wife, against his or her will. Both man and woman have equal rights of choice. Not even the father, the mother or any other guardian can force anybody to marry against his or her wish. The Qurän says,
23. MARRY THOSE AMONG YOU WHO ARE SINGLE, OR THE VIRTUOUS ONES AMONG YOUR SLAVES, MALE OR FEMALE: IF THEY ARE IN POVERTY, GOD WILL GIVE THEM MEANS OUT OF HIS GRACE: FOR GOD ENCOMPASSETH ALL, AND HE KNOWETH ALL THINGS (AL-QURÄN - 24:32).
Muhammad said, “Manners and gentility, using perfumes, cleaning tooth and marriage are four important acts of prophets.” Abu Huraira quotes the Prophet as saying: “He who enters into marriage to live a pious life is qualified to receive God’s help (Tirmizi).”
Three companions of the Prophet once presumed that it is necessary to worship God generously. Therefore, one said, “I will worship God all the night.” The second said, “I will fast all my life.” The third said, “I will worship God remaining a celibate without entangling myself in the family life.” At this point, the Prophet of God entered the scene and said, “Remember! By God, I fear God more than you fear, and keep within limits and sanctity more than you do, and yet I fast and go without fasting as well. I pray in the late nights, sleep and live with my wives. These are my ways and those that will not abide by my ways are not counted in my group (Bukhari).”
The Prophet once told Ali (RA: “Never dilly-dally in three matters: a) Prayers, when is necessary, b) Funeral prayers c) and marrying the unmarried when compatible partners are found” (Tirmizi). The Prophet said, “In the union of marriage the love and affection that engender and flourish between the husband and the wife is unique (Ibn Maza).” Ibn Abbas quotes the Prophet as saying, “Islam does not recognize antipathy to marriage” (Abu-Dawood). Ali, the fourth Caliph said, “In the wealth that God bestowed on man, there is nothing more important than a pious wife after the Faith” (Hadith).
Othman, the son of Mawuz, once requested the Prophet: “O Prophet, give me permission to leave this domestic life to live in celibacy.” The Prophet answered: “No, for my followers leaving the domestic life is not permitted and those that leave are not included in my group. To fight for the cause of God is the best sacrifice for my followers.” Then Othman requested the permission to live as a celibate. The Prophet replied, “Those in my group lead a domestic life and wait in the mosque for prayers are the best Hermits.”
From the above it is amply proven that Islam does not approve of celibacy. It has on the contrary given a better status to married life, over an ascetic’s life. In Islam marriage is a social and domestic bond, which legalizes physical relation between the sexes by a practicable and natural covenant. No similar agreements are found in any other religion. This is the way of the Prophet. Unlike Christianity, marriage has not been discouraged in Islam.
DOWRY (MEHR) IN ISLAM:
The Qurän says,24. AND GIVE THE WOMEN (ON MARRIAGE) THEIR DOWER AS A FREE GIFT (AL-QURÄN - 4:4).
25. NOR SHOULD YE TREAT THEM WITH HARSHNESS, THAT YE MAY TAKE AWAY PART OF THE DOWER YE HAVE GIVEN THEM (AL-QURÄN - 4:19).
26. IT IS NOT LAWFUL FOR YOU, (MEN), TO TAKE BACK ANY OF YOUR GIFTS (FROM YOUR WIVES) (AL-QURÄN - 2:229).
25. NOR SHOULD YE TREAT THEM WITH HARSHNESS, THAT YE MAY TAKE AWAY PART OF THE DOWER YE HAVE GIVEN THEM (AL-QURÄN - 4:19).
26. IT IS NOT LAWFUL FOR YOU, (MEN), TO TAKE BACK ANY OF YOUR GIFTS (FROM YOUR WIVES) (AL-QURÄN - 2:229).
Arabic Mehr means gifts (Gift in cash given to the bride by the bridegroom). In recognition of the wife’s status, the husband is bound to give her some present valued by the society at the time of marriage, according to Islam. “This is the expression of respect for the wife by the husband,” said the Prophet. By giving the present (Mehr), the husband attains the right to sleep with his wife. Without this ‘Mehr’, marriage is not legal in Islam.
In the Muslim world, the Prophet was the very first to enforce a very simple, austere and easy rite, for marriage. Before that, marriage used to be an affair of much fanfare. Muhammad first married a very rich lady Hazrat Khadija, and at his instance, she distributed all her immense wealth among the poor. After her death, the Prophet married Abu Bakr’s daughter, Ayesha in a simple ceremony and did not take any dowry. Likewise, Othman married the Prophet’s (PBUH) second and the third daughters, one after the death of the other without any dowry. Similarly, Ali married the youngest, Fatima. In this way, the Prophet by example discouraged glittering parties at marriages. The bridegroom is not permitted any dowry. Both the parties will spend according to their own capability. The groom irrespective of the brides’ status must give Mehr. After the marriage, the groom should entertain the bridal party and others with food, according to his ability.
Nowadays, the Mehr, in cases, are very low (however, the situation is not the same all over the Muslim world). It also varies widely among different socioeconomic groups. In the days of Muhammad Mehr, generally, was much higher and the groom was not allowed any endowments. Once Omar, the second Caliph of Islam, in a gathering of Muslims raised the issue and opined that it was rather high, and should be reduced. At this, women seating at the back stood up and protested. The Caliph then decided to remain silent on the issue. This clearly shows that at the beginning of Islam, women were given the full right to decide their own dowry. When Muhammad married Khadija, he (PBUH) gave a Mehr of twelve Ukiah, gold coins, which was valued at about five hundred dirham at the time. After fourteen hundred years, the same can be calculated at Tk. 125,000.00 (roughly the same amount in dollars taking into accounts the living standards in the western countries). Token Mehr would be against the tradition of the Prophet. “To men is allotted what they earn, and to women what they earn: (Al-Qurän - 4:32). Therefore, as soon as marriage is performed Mehr (Gift at the time of marriage, in cash) becomes due and do not delay in paying what is due. This is the teaching of Shariat (Islamic law), Allah’s command. Money thus given to the bride solely belongs to her, and she may invest it as she pleases, to make herself self-reliant. God in this way provided for a way to emancipate women, economically. In this practice, abide peace, prosperity and happiness. All Muslims should practice this tradition of the Prophet.
Currently, particularly, in the subcontinent of India (Indo-Pak-Bangladesh) demands of exorbitant dowry by the bridegroom or his party has made it very difficult for the guardian of a daughter to marry her. It has become a curse in the society. In India and in the Hindus in Bangladesh the practice is widespread. It is not rare in Muslims either in Bangladesh. The situation is different in the Arab-Muslim-countries, where males cannot marry because of exorbitant demands by the parents of the girls. Regularly, if the father of the bride fails to fulfil the demands of the groom as promised, the man and his family torture the girl. In many cases, this proves fatal. Clearly, the way prescribed by Allah through his Prophet is the best, and should be followed by all without any question.
Modern experts described menstruation as, “The monthly course of bleeding from the uterus for 5-7 days for all adult women during the reproductive period unless pregnancy occurs.” Though it is a physiological phenomenon, yet it is not devoid of threats of sudden urge of micturition and defecation. The Quränic statement that it is a discomfort is supported by scientific observations.
Wilfred Shaw2, a famous Gynaecologist wrote, “a feeling of uneasiness during normal menstruation - especially in the lower abdomen is quite common. Some girls get severe pain during the first period, and in some, pain may last throughout life during each menstruation.”
Dr. John Graham3 wrote, since there is chance of spreading disease and getting infection during menstruation, it cannot be regarded as absolutely normal and physiological.”
Dr. Katherine Dalton4, a British woman doctor carried out research study to see the effect of menstruation on the performance of young girls in hospitals, hostels, and prisons during 1959-61 in the United Kingdom. She published five papers in the British Medical Journal based on the findings of her study. She observed that just before and during the period, the efficiency and physical fitness of the girls are markedly lowered. Dr. Dalton observed that the lack of interest, inattentiveness, attempt to avoid games and talkativeness increased by 26% to 36%. Those girls who are usually of bad habits, their offences are increased much more. She further wrote, “from among the students of 6th grade to 11th grade prefects were selected of age 16 to 18 years, who were empowered to punish the girls who committed offences in the class. It is interesting to note that these prefects increased punishment during their own menstrual period. They begin to increase punishment at the beginning of their period and continue to increase during the period and again become normal after the period.” Dr. Dalton then posed a question, if such behaviour is true for all the women, especially the teacher, magistrates and others engaged in administration, should they be treated at par with their male colleagues.
Dr. Erdely5 of Illinois, U.S.A., studied the effects of menstruation on 729 Hungarian female athletes. He found that their standard in tennis and boat race was markedly reduced during menstruation.
Therefore, the above-mentioned scientific observations are enough to justify that menstruation is a minor illness when all women should avoid physical labour and risk of infection. Allah forbids sexual intercourse during menstruation, which is also medically justified.
During the menstruation, the opening of the uterus (Os-uteri) which normally remains closed by mucus plug opens to allow the menstrual blood to flow out. The bleeding occurs due to the necrosis of the lining of the uterus, which thickens during the post menstrual period. If fertilized ovum does not embed there, the newly grown endometrium undergoes necrosis, hence the bleeding. Pregnancy stops this process.
As the opening of the uterus remains open, if coitus takes place during menstruation, chances of bacterial infection from outside increases. If the vaginal passage is already infected then infection may spread inside. This is dangerous as the uterus is directly connected with the peritoneal cavity through the two fallopian tubes on two sides of the uterus. Therefore, if there is infection in the vaginal passage, like gonorrhoea and syphilis, the infection may readily spread inwards, following coitus resulting into serious diseases viz., endometritis salpingitis, peritonitis and even pelvic cellulitis in the female. If the female suffers from leucorrhoea due to a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, the male partner may catch Trichomonas urethritis. On the other hand, the female can be infected more easily with venereal diseases during menstruation, through sexual intercourse.
Dr. Graham6 opines, “The reason to forbid coitus during menstrual period is not psychological but hygienic.”
However, in Islam, menstrual blood is considered unclean, not the menstruating female. Only sexual intercourse is prohibited, but menstruating woman should not regard them as unclean, as is done in some other societies. All regulations in this regard are scientific and hygienic. Furthermore, during pregnancy and after the birth of a child, women remain weak and unable to labour physically and mentally. Clearly, the above-mentioned scientific discourses have established that the women are physically and mentally impaired. Therefore, they are very naturally not at par with their male counterparts at work. Specially, teachers, accountants, magistrates, physicians, engineers, administrators, and others in important positions cannot do justice to their jobs, during menstruation. God justifiably, thus, has put man a degree above woman. That in no way diminishes or tarnishes woman’s position in the society. God has put them on a very lofty position declaring that the children’s heaven is at the feet of their mothers.
In the menstrual state women remain below their normal efficiency and similar is the case after menopause. They for few years remain below normal state of physical and mental alertness. In some cases, they become easily irritable, emotional, sensitive, forgetful, sleepless, restless and inattentive.
Experts have divided women in menopause in three groups namely, women complaining of burning sensations in the throats, mouths, ears, face and foreheads are severe cases. The medical term for this state is hot flashes. This may happen 20 to 30 times a day and the person will sweat profusely. Within a year or two, this state ends automatically. In the second category are those that experience frequent micturition. Besides, they feel disinterested in sex. In the third are those that experience thinning of outer skin of the vagina and consequently it becomes painful. They get burning sensation after sex and thus often fearful of sexual intercourse.
Calcium in body of the women after menopause decreases and the bones becomes brittle. Probability of heart disease increases after menopause. Skin and hair after menopause lose their lustre. Some in their menopause get hints of beard and moustache and lose sweetness of the voice as it thickens. Hormonal imbalance causes problems within the body.
Dr. Zebunnessa Marium (of Dhaka, Bangladesh) said, "After a particular age when women stop menstruating or if their ovaries become inactive, they experience changes within their bodies after a while. The manifestations of these changes are called menopausal syndrome. Generally, menopause occurs between the ages 45 to 52 years. The following symptoms are seen:
In this way, women lose their ability to work with efficiency at least for some time. Therefore, they remain behind man in ability and strength.
Modern science has discovered that females are born with only one type of chromosomes i.e. X, while the male has both i.e. XY. It is therefore, clearly seen that females are born with singular characteristic while male inherits duality.
The above discussion clearly indicates that women are naturally weaker than their male counterparts are. Man does not have any structural weaknesses in him while woman have very weak spots in her body like, the rear, the breast and the genital etc. These body parts make her weak, attractive, and defenceless. She needs protection and care. God has made man as the protector and provider to deal with the mundane world and its hazards. He is brave, strong and rugged. Therefore, the male is tailored to be the guardian in this world. Considering these differences in the physiology Islam has granted man advantage over woman (Al-Qurän - 4: 32 and 124). This grant of advantage does not make woman inferior to man in any way like the other religions of the world. Their status as human beings has not been compromised. Contrarily, she is given a much-respected place in the society. To God they are both equals in respect of their deeds. They will be judged by their respective deeds and not by their sex:
God in the Holy Qurän says:
In the Muslim world, the Prophet was the very first to enforce a very simple, austere and easy rite, for marriage. Before that, marriage used to be an affair of much fanfare. Muhammad first married a very rich lady Hazrat Khadija, and at his instance, she distributed all her immense wealth among the poor. After her death, the Prophet married Abu Bakr’s daughter, Ayesha in a simple ceremony and did not take any dowry. Likewise, Othman married the Prophet’s (PBUH) second and the third daughters, one after the death of the other without any dowry. Similarly, Ali married the youngest, Fatima. In this way, the Prophet by example discouraged glittering parties at marriages. The bridegroom is not permitted any dowry. Both the parties will spend according to their own capability. The groom irrespective of the brides’ status must give Mehr. After the marriage, the groom should entertain the bridal party and others with food, according to his ability.
Nowadays, the Mehr, in cases, are very low (however, the situation is not the same all over the Muslim world). It also varies widely among different socioeconomic groups. In the days of Muhammad Mehr, generally, was much higher and the groom was not allowed any endowments. Once Omar, the second Caliph of Islam, in a gathering of Muslims raised the issue and opined that it was rather high, and should be reduced. At this, women seating at the back stood up and protested. The Caliph then decided to remain silent on the issue. This clearly shows that at the beginning of Islam, women were given the full right to decide their own dowry. When Muhammad married Khadija, he (PBUH) gave a Mehr of twelve Ukiah, gold coins, which was valued at about five hundred dirham at the time. After fourteen hundred years, the same can be calculated at Tk. 125,000.00 (roughly the same amount in dollars taking into accounts the living standards in the western countries). Token Mehr would be against the tradition of the Prophet. “To men is allotted what they earn, and to women what they earn: (Al-Qurän - 4:32). Therefore, as soon as marriage is performed Mehr (Gift at the time of marriage, in cash) becomes due and do not delay in paying what is due. This is the teaching of Shariat (Islamic law), Allah’s command. Money thus given to the bride solely belongs to her, and she may invest it as she pleases, to make herself self-reliant. God in this way provided for a way to emancipate women, economically. In this practice, abide peace, prosperity and happiness. All Muslims should practice this tradition of the Prophet.
Currently, particularly, in the subcontinent of India (Indo-Pak-Bangladesh) demands of exorbitant dowry by the bridegroom or his party has made it very difficult for the guardian of a daughter to marry her. It has become a curse in the society. In India and in the Hindus in Bangladesh the practice is widespread. It is not rare in Muslims either in Bangladesh. The situation is different in the Arab-Muslim-countries, where males cannot marry because of exorbitant demands by the parents of the girls. Regularly, if the father of the bride fails to fulfil the demands of the groom as promised, the man and his family torture the girl. In many cases, this proves fatal. Clearly, the way prescribed by Allah through his Prophet is the best, and should be followed by all without any question.
RIGHTS OF WIVES IN ISLAM:
There is only one King in a country. Two Kings do not rule over a country. If two Kings rule over a land, confusion and anarchy will prevail, since the two sovereigns shall rule, naturally, independently of each other. Even in the modern democratic set up where by definition the country is ruled by consensus, an undisputed leader is needed. Similarly, the family is a kingdom where the husband, wife, children and servants reside together. To keep harmony and peace a leader is required for the family. In no way there can be two leaders in a family, for the very reasons stated earlier. As some physical barriers weaken the claim of the female to the leadership, she must willingly resign to the second position. God Has wanted so, and that ensures the peace in the family. Surely, the male does not have any scope to become a despotic autocrat. This has been amply illustrated earlier, discussing right of the sexes and the relationship between the sexes and in the chapter on equality. “And women shall have rights similar to the rights against them, according to what is equitable; But men have a degree (of advantage) over them (Al-Qurän - 2:228).” “Men are protectors and maintainers of women, because God has given the one more (strength) than the other (Al-Qurän - 4:34).” Women for a considerable period are incapacitated physically and mentally to lead a normal life. Pregnancy, menstruation and the onset of menopause make considerable demand on the body and the mind, and women during these times suffer from physical and mental irritation and weakness. In these periods, their physical strength and mental agility are impaired. God thus, in spite of giving freedom to women and placing them in an exalted place of motherhood, has subordinated them to men. This is the will of God, and it keeps familial peace and happiness. Today, in the face of financial hardships, men and women are forced to work for living a decent life, and as a result, both want to exert their supremacy, which culminates into chaos. Therefore, the way of God is the only way to establish serenity in the family. Why we toil to enrich our family income? We toil to increase income simply, to ensure easy living, resulting in peace and happiness of the family. Why then defeat the very purpose that we are labouring to establish. It is an established fact that the male is stronger both physically and mentally and is better prepared to face the harsh world outside. Therefore, the harsh outside life should be left to them.PHYSICAL INABILITY OF WOMEN:
MENSTRUATION:
Of the many physical afflictions, menstruation is one of the main regular maladies that women suffer from monthly, after attaining puberty. At this time, they feel pain in the lower abdomen, back and the legs. Some among them for various reasons suffer from irregular or excessive bleeding. Some have very painful periods. Most experience a change in attitude and behaviour. Modern science has determined that most women undergo a 5-7 days menstruation period. During which they remain sensitive and irritable. Repeated urge to defecate and urinate is a regular feature, the body, and the mind experience changes. The Qurän has labelled it as unholy but remember, the woman herself does not become so (Al-Qurän - 2:222).Modern experts described menstruation as, “The monthly course of bleeding from the uterus for 5-7 days for all adult women during the reproductive period unless pregnancy occurs.” Though it is a physiological phenomenon, yet it is not devoid of threats of sudden urge of micturition and defecation. The Quränic statement that it is a discomfort is supported by scientific observations.
Wilfred Shaw2, a famous Gynaecologist wrote, “a feeling of uneasiness during normal menstruation - especially in the lower abdomen is quite common. Some girls get severe pain during the first period, and in some, pain may last throughout life during each menstruation.”
Dr. John Graham3 wrote, since there is chance of spreading disease and getting infection during menstruation, it cannot be regarded as absolutely normal and physiological.”
Dr. Katherine Dalton4, a British woman doctor carried out research study to see the effect of menstruation on the performance of young girls in hospitals, hostels, and prisons during 1959-61 in the United Kingdom. She published five papers in the British Medical Journal based on the findings of her study. She observed that just before and during the period, the efficiency and physical fitness of the girls are markedly lowered. Dr. Dalton observed that the lack of interest, inattentiveness, attempt to avoid games and talkativeness increased by 26% to 36%. Those girls who are usually of bad habits, their offences are increased much more. She further wrote, “from among the students of 6th grade to 11th grade prefects were selected of age 16 to 18 years, who were empowered to punish the girls who committed offences in the class. It is interesting to note that these prefects increased punishment during their own menstrual period. They begin to increase punishment at the beginning of their period and continue to increase during the period and again become normal after the period.” Dr. Dalton then posed a question, if such behaviour is true for all the women, especially the teacher, magistrates and others engaged in administration, should they be treated at par with their male colleagues.
Dr. Erdely5 of Illinois, U.S.A., studied the effects of menstruation on 729 Hungarian female athletes. He found that their standard in tennis and boat race was markedly reduced during menstruation.
Therefore, the above-mentioned scientific observations are enough to justify that menstruation is a minor illness when all women should avoid physical labour and risk of infection. Allah forbids sexual intercourse during menstruation, which is also medically justified.
During the menstruation, the opening of the uterus (Os-uteri) which normally remains closed by mucus plug opens to allow the menstrual blood to flow out. The bleeding occurs due to the necrosis of the lining of the uterus, which thickens during the post menstrual period. If fertilized ovum does not embed there, the newly grown endometrium undergoes necrosis, hence the bleeding. Pregnancy stops this process.
As the opening of the uterus remains open, if coitus takes place during menstruation, chances of bacterial infection from outside increases. If the vaginal passage is already infected then infection may spread inside. This is dangerous as the uterus is directly connected with the peritoneal cavity through the two fallopian tubes on two sides of the uterus. Therefore, if there is infection in the vaginal passage, like gonorrhoea and syphilis, the infection may readily spread inwards, following coitus resulting into serious diseases viz., endometritis salpingitis, peritonitis and even pelvic cellulitis in the female. If the female suffers from leucorrhoea due to a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, the male partner may catch Trichomonas urethritis. On the other hand, the female can be infected more easily with venereal diseases during menstruation, through sexual intercourse.
Dr. Graham6 opines, “The reason to forbid coitus during menstrual period is not psychological but hygienic.”
However, in Islam, menstrual blood is considered unclean, not the menstruating female. Only sexual intercourse is prohibited, but menstruating woman should not regard them as unclean, as is done in some other societies. All regulations in this regard are scientific and hygienic. Furthermore, during pregnancy and after the birth of a child, women remain weak and unable to labour physically and mentally. Clearly, the above-mentioned scientific discourses have established that the women are physically and mentally impaired. Therefore, they are very naturally not at par with their male counterparts at work. Specially, teachers, accountants, magistrates, physicians, engineers, administrators, and others in important positions cannot do justice to their jobs, during menstruation. God justifiably, thus, has put man a degree above woman. That in no way diminishes or tarnishes woman’s position in the society. God has put them on a very lofty position declaring that the children’s heaven is at the feet of their mothers.
MENOPAUSE:
GYNAECOLOGIST DR. SUDEEP CHAKRAVARTY:7
Menopause is the phenomena that reduce the ability of women to compete with men. Generally, in hot climatic condition women attain menopausal state at around 40-45 years. In the hot climatic condition of the Indian sub-continent girls attain puberty or reproductive ability and start menstruating at 12-14 years about two three years earlier than girls in the western colder countries.In the menstrual state women remain below their normal efficiency and similar is the case after menopause. They for few years remain below normal state of physical and mental alertness. In some cases, they become easily irritable, emotional, sensitive, forgetful, sleepless, restless and inattentive.
Experts have divided women in menopause in three groups namely, women complaining of burning sensations in the throats, mouths, ears, face and foreheads are severe cases. The medical term for this state is hot flashes. This may happen 20 to 30 times a day and the person will sweat profusely. Within a year or two, this state ends automatically. In the second category are those that experience frequent micturition. Besides, they feel disinterested in sex. In the third are those that experience thinning of outer skin of the vagina and consequently it becomes painful. They get burning sensation after sex and thus often fearful of sexual intercourse.
Calcium in body of the women after menopause decreases and the bones becomes brittle. Probability of heart disease increases after menopause. Skin and hair after menopause lose their lustre. Some in their menopause get hints of beard and moustache and lose sweetness of the voice as it thickens. Hormonal imbalance causes problems within the body.
Dr. Zebunnessa Marium (of Dhaka, Bangladesh) said, "After a particular age when women stop menstruating or if their ovaries become inactive, they experience changes within their bodies after a while. The manifestations of these changes are called menopausal syndrome. Generally, menopause occurs between the ages 45 to 52 years. The following symptoms are seen:
NERVOUS AND MENTAL SYMPTOMS:
Exhaustion, Lethargy, excitement, nervous weakness, irritation, headache, sleeplessness, lethargic limbs manifest as nervous and mental symptoms.SYMPTOMS IN THE STOMACH AND DUODENUM:
Symptoms include changes in food habits, digestive irregularity and constipation.SYMPTOMS OF HEART AND BLOOD VESSELS:
Temperature with sudden pain in the stomach with hot flashes felt in the face. Excessive sweating and feeling cold with shivering.GENITAL CONDITION:
Less sexual urge, painful coitus (due to dryness in the vaginal passage) and sometimes, excessive sexual urge.OTHER SYMPTOMS:
Painful breast, joint pain, black spots on the skin (The daily Ittefaq, Dhaka, Bangladesh; Tuesday, March 31, 1998).In this way, women lose their ability to work with efficiency at least for some time. Therefore, they remain behind man in ability and strength.
Modern science has discovered that females are born with only one type of chromosomes i.e. X, while the male has both i.e. XY. It is therefore, clearly seen that females are born with singular characteristic while male inherits duality.
The above discussion clearly indicates that women are naturally weaker than their male counterparts are. Man does not have any structural weaknesses in him while woman have very weak spots in her body like, the rear, the breast and the genital etc. These body parts make her weak, attractive, and defenceless. She needs protection and care. God has made man as the protector and provider to deal with the mundane world and its hazards. He is brave, strong and rugged. Therefore, the male is tailored to be the guardian in this world. Considering these differences in the physiology Islam has granted man advantage over woman (Al-Qurän - 4: 32 and 124). This grant of advantage does not make woman inferior to man in any way like the other religions of the world. Their status as human beings has not been compromised. Contrarily, she is given a much-respected place in the society. To God they are both equals in respect of their deeds. They will be judged by their respective deeds and not by their sex:
God in the Holy Qurän says:
27. IF ANY DO DEEDS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, - BE THEY MALE OR FEMALE- HAVE FAITH, THEY WILL ENTER HEAVEN, (AL-QURÄN - 4:124).
28. IF ANY DOES GOOD, THE REWARD TO HIM BETTER THAN HIS DEED; BUT IF ANY DOES EVIL, THE DOERS OF EVIL ARE ONLY PUNISHED (TO THE EXTENT) OF THEIR DEEDS. (AL-QURÄN - 28:84).
28. IF ANY DOES GOOD, THE REWARD TO HIM BETTER THAN HIS DEED; BUT IF ANY DOES EVIL, THE DOERS OF EVIL ARE ONLY PUNISHED (TO THE EXTENT) OF THEIR DEEDS. (AL-QURÄN - 28:84).
HUSBAND WIFE RELATIONSHIP AND DUTIES:
KIND HEARTED WOMEN:
Continuing the discussion in the above section where male strength has been discussed, we are discussing female frailties that make them adorable. Woman is endowed with finer qualities of the heart. With their gentle, tender and kind qualities, they, from the beginning to the end, enrich life as mothers, sisters, wives and companions. They are endowed with the subtle powers of inspiring, en kindling, motivating and manipulating males for great deeds. Therefore, Man is given the duties of looking after the family, while the woman is made responsible for supervising the household affairs. They will separately answer for their lapses, in managing their own affairs. In Islam, in this manner, both the sexes are made dependent on each other, but none of them is inferior or superior to the other. Both the segments of human race are inseparably made complementary to each other, and are unable to survive without one another. Notwithstanding, the fact that women have been subordinated to men for the sake of smooth functioning of the society, considering their physical and mental capabilities, man protects and woman manages the family. Their complementary status makes them equal, thus ensuring peace, happiness and well-being of the family. God, in the Holy Qurän, has explained the ideal behaviour, dealings with each other, duties, and rights of partners for us to achieve conjugal peace and happiness.
Islam has further emphasized on the need of compatibility of both the partners. In the selections of brides or grooms, careful comparison of wealth, family status, physical beauty and religiousness should be done. Muhammad instructed that if all other qualities are missing and both the parties are pious then that is enough to tie them in marriage. Otherwise, he (PBUH) warned, the result would be disastrous.
The Holy Qurän clearly says, Islam has further emphasized on the need of compatibility of both the partners. In the selections of brides or grooms, careful comparison of wealth, family status, physical beauty and religiousness should be done. Muhammad instructed that if all other qualities are missing and both the parties are pious then that is enough to tie them in marriage. Otherwise, he (PBUH) warned, the result would be disastrous.
29. AND AMONG HIS SIGNS IS THIS THAT HE CREATED FOR YOU MATES FROM AMONG YOURSELVES, THAT YE MAY DWELL IN TRANQUILLITY WITH THEM, AND HE HAS PUT LOVE AND MERCY BETWEEN YOUR (HEARTS): VERILY IN THAT ARE SIGNS FOR THOSE WHO REFLECT (AL-QURÄN - 30:21).
In this, it has been explicitly indicated that the basis of conjugal peace is the love and understanding between the husband and the wife. The wife finds heavenly pleasure in caring for the husband; the husband finds pleasure in her company.
In Islam, rules of marriage are very clear, practicable and tuned to human nature. Man and woman have equal rights and are equal in all respects except in physical supremacy and mental leadership. This is perfectly harmonious to human nature. Answering to the question of a disciple Muhammad said, “Whatever you will eat give the same to your wife. Clothe her with the same kind of cloth that you wear. Do not hit her on the face. Do not defame and malign her and if you are separated due to any dispute keep that private. About a faithful woman, do not harbour any ill feeling. If you are displeased for any fault in your wife, be pleased with her for her other qualities.”
In Islam, rules of marriage are very clear, practicable and tuned to human nature. Man and woman have equal rights and are equal in all respects except in physical supremacy and mental leadership. This is perfectly harmonious to human nature. Answering to the question of a disciple Muhammad said, “Whatever you will eat give the same to your wife. Clothe her with the same kind of cloth that you wear. Do not hit her on the face. Do not defame and malign her and if you are separated due to any dispute keep that private. About a faithful woman, do not harbour any ill feeling. If you are displeased for any fault in your wife, be pleased with her for her other qualities.”
He (PBUH) further said, “The man that has more than one wife and does not treat them equally and justly God will punish him at the Day of Judgement.” “Take the opinion of woman, because they are created from the rib of Adam, which is curved, and anybody trying to unbend it will break it. And if left alone it will bend further.”
Therefore, keeping their nature in the mind treat them, appropriately. The Prophet said, “In all the sanctioned acts divorce is included, nonetheless, God dislikes divorce, the most.” On the other hand reminding the wives about their duties, the Prophet said, “God does not accept the prayers of three types of people:
12. THE SLAVE THAT DESERT HIS MASTER, UNTIL HE SURRENDERS,
13. THE WIFE WITH WHOM THE HUSBAND IS DISPLEASED FOR VALID REASONS,
14. AND THE DRUNK UNTIL HE REGAINS HIS COMPOSURE.”
13. THE WIFE WITH WHOM THE HUSBAND IS DISPLEASED FOR VALID REASONS,
14. AND THE DRUNK UNTIL HE REGAINS HIS COMPOSURE.”
He further says, “Those wives that sleep in separate beds or leave beds without the concurrence of their husbands, invite God’s displeasure.”
The great Prophet has not only advised about the duties of the husband but has set example by exercising those in his own life. He has shown that polygamy is not a matter of fun and frolic, but it entails great responsibility, as all the wives should be treated equally and any lapse is a grave sin. A husband must try to assess his wife and deal with her accordingly. He should not be very harsh or give unlimited leash to his wife that may encourage waywardness.
Similarly, the Prophet has clearly stated the duties and responsibilities of a wife. God will not accept prayers of the wife, as long as the husband is displeased on her for valid reasons. For an unjust reason, if the wife tarnishes happiness by demanding a divorce, she would be denied the eternal happiness of heaven. The soul of such a woman will not be liberated. However, if the behaviour and treatment of the husband crosses limits of tolerance, the wife has the right to seek a divorce. Muhammad said, “Man attains immortality by giving life in battles, and woman by caring for her husbands, sons and daughters.”
The Holy Qurän says,
The great Prophet has not only advised about the duties of the husband but has set example by exercising those in his own life. He has shown that polygamy is not a matter of fun and frolic, but it entails great responsibility, as all the wives should be treated equally and any lapse is a grave sin. A husband must try to assess his wife and deal with her accordingly. He should not be very harsh or give unlimited leash to his wife that may encourage waywardness.
Similarly, the Prophet has clearly stated the duties and responsibilities of a wife. God will not accept prayers of the wife, as long as the husband is displeased on her for valid reasons. For an unjust reason, if the wife tarnishes happiness by demanding a divorce, she would be denied the eternal happiness of heaven. The soul of such a woman will not be liberated. However, if the behaviour and treatment of the husband crosses limits of tolerance, the wife has the right to seek a divorce. Muhammad said, “Man attains immortality by giving life in battles, and woman by caring for her husbands, sons and daughters.”
The Holy Qurän says,
30. AND WOMEN SHALL HAVE RIGHTS SIMILAR TO THE RIGHTS AGAINST THEM, ACCORDING TO WHAT IS EQUITABLE; BUT MEN HAVE A DEGREE (OF ADVANTAGE) OVER THEM (AL-QURÄN - 2:228).
This is for the fact that they are responsible for maintenance and protection of the women.
31. MEN ARE PROTECTORS AND MAINTAINERS OF WOMEN, BECAUSE GOD HAS GIVEN THE ONE MORE (STRENGTH) THAN THE OTHER (AL-QURÄN - 4:34).
Today, women in many trades work side by side with men. They are even travelling to the space and are working in such trades where only men used to work before. Yet they are incapacitated during menstruation and pregnancy and of which men are free. Considering all these, men have been given the role of protectors and providers. This is not to establish the supremacy of men over women but also ensures security and peace in the family. In Islam, emphasis is on decision regarding family matters by consultation with the wife (wives).
32. IF THEY BOTH DECIDE ON WEANING, BY MUTUAL CONSENT, AND AFTER DUE CONSULTATION, THERE IS NO BLAME ON THEM (AL-QURÄN - 2:233).
Here clearly the stress is on “mutual consent and consultations.” Above all, in the Holy Qurän great importance is attached to the basic rights of women. The Prophet has advised to treat women befittingly and to give them company.
33. IF YOU TAKE A DISLIKE TO THEM IT MAY BE THAT YE DISLIKE A THING, AND GOD BRINGS ABOUT THROUGH IT A GREAT DEAL OF GOOD (AL-QURÄN - 4:19).
Muhammad said, “He is the best among you whose wife considers him good, and I am considered perfect by my wives.” “He is the best Faithful who has a good character and among the faithful he is the best who is liked by his wife/wives, and those are the worst that beat their wives,” said, Muhammad.
In the civilized world, Islam granted equality and dignity to women. It recognized them as independent beings with rights to opinion, control and property. Married, unmarried, widowed or divorced, in all circumstances, women retain the right to property and wealth. Her property or wealth solely belongs to her. In very clear terms, Islam has given women the right to the property and wealth of the husband, father, mother and other relatives. The Qurän says,
34. FROM WHAT IS LEFT BY PARENTS AND THOSE NEAREST RELATED THERE IS A SHARE FOR MEN AND SHARE FOR WOMEN, WHETHER THE PROPERTY BE SMALL OR LARGE, - A DETERMINATE SHARE. (AL-QURÄN - 4:7).
Females inherit their father’s property and a share of their husband’s property goes to them at their deaths. Males after inheriting their father’s property have no other source than their own labour to increase their property, but they are responsible for providing for their families. Women on the other hand cannot be forced to shoulder the responsibility to provide for the family.
35. TO MEN IS ALLOTTED WHAT THEY EARN, AND TO WOMEN WHAT THEY EARN (AL-QURÄN - 4:32).
36. IF ANY DO DEEDS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, - BE THEY MALE OR FEMALE- HAVE FAITH, THEY WILL ENTER HEAVEN, (AL-QURÄN - 4:124).
At the Farewell Pilgrimage the Prophet had declared, “Be afraid of God while dealing with women. As husbands have rights over their wives, so do the wives.” Islam has described husbands and wives, as each other’s clothes.
God about inheritance said in the Holy Qurän: 37. GOD THUS DIRECTS YOU AS REGARDS YOUR CHILDREN’S (INHERITANCE): TO THE MALE A PORTION EQUAL THAT OF TWO FEMALES: IF ONLY DAUGHTERS, TWO OR MORE, THEIR SHARE IS TWO-THIRDS OF THE INHERITANCE; IF ONLY ONE HER SHARE IS HALF. FOR PARENTS, A SIXTH SHARE OF INHERITANCE TO EACH, IF THE DECEASED LEFT CHILDREN; IF NO CHILDREN, AND THE PARENTS THE ONLY) HEIRS, THE MOTHER HAS A THIRD; IF THE DECEASED LEFT BROTHERS (OR SISTERS) THE MOTHER HAS A SIXTH. (THE DISTRIBUTION IN ALL CASES IS) AFTER THE PAYMENT OF LEGACIES AND DEBTS (AL-QURÄN - 4:11).
As a wife, a woman is the owner of one eighths of husband’s property, if she has children and one fourth if childless. The wife enjoys total and complete control over the dowry money and the husband is responsible for maintenance of minor children. She has rights in her father’s property as a daughter, determined as half of what her brother gets and similarly, she is given rights in the property of other relations, along with male inheritors.
The rights that have been set in the form of inheritance rights of women, fourteen hundred years ago, were unthinkable for the peoples of other religions and beliefs, even two hundred years ago. No such phenomenal milestone as the law of property and inheritance could be found in the history of humankind before, or after the advent of Islam.
The rights that have been set in the form of inheritance rights of women, fourteen hundred years ago, were unthinkable for the peoples of other religions and beliefs, even two hundred years ago. No such phenomenal milestone as the law of property and inheritance could be found in the history of humankind before, or after the advent of Islam.
POLYGAMY IN ISLAM:
The holy Qurän and the sayings (Ahadith) of Muhammad are the codes of Islam, guiding the lives of all Muslim males and females. Following the injunctions of the holy Qurän ensures peace and prosperity in this life. One of the gravest sins in Islam is promiscuity. To keep the society free of social laxity and harlotry, Islam has accommodated polygamy. Though Islam permits polygamy but does not encourage it in anyway. Very strict rules have been put down to regulate polygamy and to restrict males to take wives at their sweet will. Allah the Lord of the Worlds strictly ordained in the holy Qurän:38. BUT IF YE FEAR THAT YE SHALL NOT BE ABLE TO DEAL JUSTLY (WITH THEM), THEN ONLY ONE, OR (A CAPTIVE) THAT YOUR RIGHT HANDS POSSESS (AL-QURÄN - 4:3).
God again says,
39. YE ARE NEVER ABLE TO BE FAIR AND JUST AS BETWEEN TWO WOMEN, EVEN IF IT IS YOUR ARDENT DESIRE (AL-QURÄN - 4:129).
Prophet Muhammad said, “That man who had two wives and could not maintain equality, would rise with half of his body at the day of Judgement (Mishkat).” The Prophet was very displeased with Hazrat Ali for his desire to take another wife, while Hazrat Fatima was still alive. Ali restrained himself from marrying again. The previously mentioned citations of the Qurän and Ahadith (Traditions) clearly establish that Islam allowed polygamy only in special circumstances.
In the ancient times, in countries like China, Japan, Egypt, and the Indian subcontinent, Persia, the Roman Empire and in Arabia, polygamy was practised. Emperors, Kings, Landlords, Rich and the famous had hundreds of wives. Besides that, they had filled their Harems with concubines. In this way, the practice of captivating woman behind walls started. Man could marry any time, at any age, and as many times as they pleased. There were no defined rules or law for that in any country or religion. In the Hindu mythology, and in the holy Bible, gods and prophets are stated to have many wives. As Hindu gods Mahadeva, Sri Krishna, Indra had many goddesses as their consorts so did Abraham, Jacob, Moses and David. Solomon took hundreds of wives. Jesus’ own people the Jewish; tortured and crucified him and he died before taking a woman and had not said anything in favour or against polygamy.
History stands witness to the fact that in this way from time immemorial polygamy has been practised in all the societies of Asia, Europe and Africa. Today, law forbids polygamy in the Christian countries of the west. If the husband wants to marry again, he has to divorce his wife first, as Napoleon had to divorce his wife Josephine to marry the princess of Austria on political consideration. The Hindu religion does not forbid polygamy like the Catholics. At present polygamy is socially admonished. However, if the first wife is barren or injured or for reasons of age unable to fulfil the demands of the husband, there is no socially acceptable provision to deal with the situation. Naturally, males do turn to illicit relationship or prostitutes. To keep the society from such moral pollution, Islam has made provision for many marriages. A male can take more than one wife. Sex without marriage is illegal in almost all religion of the world. Islam has marked it as one of the greatest sins. Sexual permissiveness is responsible for many diseases including killer AIDS.
Only in Islam, sex outside marriage is punishable by death. By being so harsh, Islam has sought to save the human race from extinction. On the other hand, by allowing multi-marriage, Islam has made it possible to satisfy the sexual desire remaining within a certain limit, in case of extreme necessity. Islam is the only religion that has not prohibited polygamy, but regulated it through strict injunctions; clearly giving a message that polygamy is better than hypocrisy of illicit sex, in the name of probity. All STDs and AIDS are ample proof of that. Due to restrictions on remarriage and polygamy, many unmarried and widowed women, facing adverse circumstances, are forced to leave the house and take shelter in a brothel. In times of war, thousands of men are killed increasing the number of widows, and to keep the balance between the sexes, polygamy becomes an imperative.
In the ancient times, in countries like China, Japan, Egypt, and the Indian subcontinent, Persia, the Roman Empire and in Arabia, polygamy was practised. Emperors, Kings, Landlords, Rich and the famous had hundreds of wives. Besides that, they had filled their Harems with concubines. In this way, the practice of captivating woman behind walls started. Man could marry any time, at any age, and as many times as they pleased. There were no defined rules or law for that in any country or religion. In the Hindu mythology, and in the holy Bible, gods and prophets are stated to have many wives. As Hindu gods Mahadeva, Sri Krishna, Indra had many goddesses as their consorts so did Abraham, Jacob, Moses and David. Solomon took hundreds of wives. Jesus’ own people the Jewish; tortured and crucified him and he died before taking a woman and had not said anything in favour or against polygamy.
History stands witness to the fact that in this way from time immemorial polygamy has been practised in all the societies of Asia, Europe and Africa. Today, law forbids polygamy in the Christian countries of the west. If the husband wants to marry again, he has to divorce his wife first, as Napoleon had to divorce his wife Josephine to marry the princess of Austria on political consideration. The Hindu religion does not forbid polygamy like the Catholics. At present polygamy is socially admonished. However, if the first wife is barren or injured or for reasons of age unable to fulfil the demands of the husband, there is no socially acceptable provision to deal with the situation. Naturally, males do turn to illicit relationship or prostitutes. To keep the society from such moral pollution, Islam has made provision for many marriages. A male can take more than one wife. Sex without marriage is illegal in almost all religion of the world. Islam has marked it as one of the greatest sins. Sexual permissiveness is responsible for many diseases including killer AIDS.
Only in Islam, sex outside marriage is punishable by death. By being so harsh, Islam has sought to save the human race from extinction. On the other hand, by allowing multi-marriage, Islam has made it possible to satisfy the sexual desire remaining within a certain limit, in case of extreme necessity. Islam is the only religion that has not prohibited polygamy, but regulated it through strict injunctions; clearly giving a message that polygamy is better than hypocrisy of illicit sex, in the name of probity. All STDs and AIDS are ample proof of that. Due to restrictions on remarriage and polygamy, many unmarried and widowed women, facing adverse circumstances, are forced to leave the house and take shelter in a brothel. In times of war, thousands of men are killed increasing the number of widows, and to keep the balance between the sexes, polygamy becomes an imperative.
NON-MUSLIM THINKERS’ SUPPORT FOR POLYGAMY:
Today many western intellectuals support the notion of polygamy. To cleanse the society of the macabre consequence of sexual laxity, licentiousness and homosexuality, these intellectuals advocate polygamy. They raised the demand to make polygamy legal in England of the seventeenth and the eighteenth centuries. Dr. Westmark, in his book entitled, ‘The Future of Marriage in Western Civilization’ wrote elaborately about the benefits of the practice of polygamy. In the ‘Kinsey Report’, the picture of the whole society has been faithfully depicted. With many other things it said, “In faithlessness and infidelity American men and women have beaten all the nation of the world.” Western scholars, Bernerdo Ochinus, John Milton and Davenport, etc. and other sociologists and sex specialists have supported the concept of polygamy, considering the difference in the physical makeup, physiology and the number of women. They said, “Monogamy is not scientific and natural.” In the real life, there is the need for more than one marriage. It may not be ideal to lead the whole life with only one wife, in all circumstances. Sexual crime and illicit relations pollute those societies where multi-marriages are not permitted. Males for constraints of the society and law cannot take more than one wife and therefore take concubines. Many females hang on to paramours, in the absence of a legal husband. Pregnancies resulting from such relationships embitter their lives and throw them on the compassion of the society. Since, majority of the societies openly is not supportive of these moral lapses; these ill-fated mothers are forced to live despicably wretched lives. Only Muhammad had the courage and far sightedness of recognizing the need of polygamy, which acts as a safety valve, to eliminate sexual anarchy from the society.DIVORCE OR ANNULMENT OF MARRIAGE IN ISLAM:
Though divorce is permitted in Islam, it is very strictly governed by canons. The great Prophet of God said, “Gabriel has drawn my attention to the issues of women and advised me so copiously about them that I believe that women can only be divorced for reasons of proven infidelity or denouncement of Islam (Bukhari).” He (PBUH) also said, “Whatever has God declared as legal in this world, divorce is one of them (Abu-Dawood).” The Prophet again declared, “Marry but do not divorce, because, whenever a divorce occurs, the Throne of the Almighty Allah shakes (Bukhari).” Islam considers divorce as loathsome, nevertheless, allowed divorce to its followers. In the holy Qurän, numerous precautionary measures are suggested to avoid taking the severe measure of divorcing. According to the holy Qurän (Al-Qurän - 2:226-234, 236,237, & 241; Al-Qurän - 4:34 & 35; Al-Qurän - 24:6-9 & 23; Al-Qurän - 33:49; Al-Qurän - 58:2-4; Al-Qurän - 65:1, 2, 4, 6 & 7), in Islam as the consent of the bride is necessary for marriage, so they have the right to divorce under definite circumstances. However, Islam recognizes divorce as an abominable act. Conditions are set to make divorce difficult to play with, but marriage is not been made absolute like many other religions. So that, the people involved in desperate situations, are not forced into a miserably intolerable life. Of course, women are not granted the same rights, as have been the men, regarding divorce. While a man can divorce his wife in front of two witnesses, a woman must appear before a court or judge, with definite allegations of misbehaviour, neglect, mental and physical torture and impotence, etc. If the charges are proved, annulment of marriage becomes effective.
According to Islamic canons for the following reasons, a woman can seek a divorce:15. IF MARRIED BEFORE ATTAINING PUBERTY, IMMEDIATELY, AT THE ATTAINMENT OF PUBERTY THE WIFE MAY SEEK DIVORCE FOR NOT LIKING HER SPOUSE.
16. IN THE ABSENCE OF MAINTENANCE, DIVORCE CAN BE DEMANDED. THE COURT FIRST WOULD DIRECT THE HUSBAND TO PROVIDE MAINTENANCE AND AT NON-COMPLIANCE OR INABILITY WOULD GRANT A DIVORCE AS REQUESTED.
17. ON CONVERSION TO OTHER RELIGION, IF THE MUSLIM WIFE DEMANDS A DIVORCE IT WOULD BE EFFECTIVE, IMMEDIATELY.
18. FOR REASONS OF IMPOTENCE, DIVORCE CAN BE DEMANDED. IN THIS CASE, THE COURT MAY GRANT TIME FOR PROPER TREATMENT AND DIRECT THE WIFE TO REMAIN WEDDED. IN CASE THE HUSBAND IS CURED, THE WIFE WOULD NOT BE GRANTED A DIVORCE.
19. FOR REASONS OF GRAVE CONTAGIOUS DISEASE OF THE HUSBAND, THE WIFE MAY GET A DIVORCE ON DEMAND.
20. IF THE HUSBAND IS MISSING, THE WIFE MAY REQUEST A COURT OR A KAZI (JUDGE) TO GRANT A DIVORCE, BUT WOULD BE REQUIRED TO WAIT FOR A DEFINITE TIME, BEFORE THE PRAYER IS GRANTED.
16. IN THE ABSENCE OF MAINTENANCE, DIVORCE CAN BE DEMANDED. THE COURT FIRST WOULD DIRECT THE HUSBAND TO PROVIDE MAINTENANCE AND AT NON-COMPLIANCE OR INABILITY WOULD GRANT A DIVORCE AS REQUESTED.
17. ON CONVERSION TO OTHER RELIGION, IF THE MUSLIM WIFE DEMANDS A DIVORCE IT WOULD BE EFFECTIVE, IMMEDIATELY.
18. FOR REASONS OF IMPOTENCE, DIVORCE CAN BE DEMANDED. IN THIS CASE, THE COURT MAY GRANT TIME FOR PROPER TREATMENT AND DIRECT THE WIFE TO REMAIN WEDDED. IN CASE THE HUSBAND IS CURED, THE WIFE WOULD NOT BE GRANTED A DIVORCE.
19. FOR REASONS OF GRAVE CONTAGIOUS DISEASE OF THE HUSBAND, THE WIFE MAY GET A DIVORCE ON DEMAND.
20. IF THE HUSBAND IS MISSING, THE WIFE MAY REQUEST A COURT OR A KAZI (JUDGE) TO GRANT A DIVORCE, BUT WOULD BE REQUIRED TO WAIT FOR A DEFINITE TIME, BEFORE THE PRAYER IS GRANTED.
If the reasons, mentioned above, are proven true, no authority can withhold divorce legally. Ample precautions have been taken to arrest any hasty or playful decision to divorce, by any party. Both male and female aspirants for a divorce are to advance systematically. For any reason if it becomes intolerable to continue to remain wedded, the wife may divorce her husband without going to the court; in that case, the husband is directed to seek an amicable solution.
MUSLIM WOMEN’S CONTRIBUTION TO THE WORLD:
Islam has not only elevated women in the household, but also has established them outside the home with honour. Women enrich the family life with love, affection and compassion, as a comrade in sorrow and happiness of their husbands. They have also proved their worth equally deftly, outside the confines of their homes. In every field from politics and statecraft to war and peace, they have left their indelible mark, contributing to the meteoric rise of Islamic power.
These Muslim women fought in the holy wars, along with their male counterparts, with equal valour and vigour. Mainly, they engaged themselves in nursing and other such jobs, but never hesitated to fight the enemy, sword in hand, if needed. In the ‘Battle of Ohud’, Umme-Amara, a lady companion of the Prophet, repulsed the enemy fighting with sword and arrows.8 She also fought against Musailamma, the pretender.9 Hazrat Safiya an aunt of Muhammad while guarding a citadel, sheltering Muslim women, came across treacherous Jewish attackers. She beheaded one and threw the head outside the fortress, which kept the attackers from advancing further.10 Umme-Sulaim, in the ‘Battle of Hunaian’, took up the sword.11 Always one of the wives of Muhammad accompanied him to the battlefield. Among them, the daughter of Hazrat Omar Faruque, Ummul Muminin Hafsa, helped the Prophet in the strategic planning of wars, as she was an expert war strategist.
These Muslim women fought in the holy wars, along with their male counterparts, with equal valour and vigour. Mainly, they engaged themselves in nursing and other such jobs, but never hesitated to fight the enemy, sword in hand, if needed. In the ‘Battle of Ohud’, Umme-Amara, a lady companion of the Prophet, repulsed the enemy fighting with sword and arrows.8 She also fought against Musailamma, the pretender.9 Hazrat Safiya an aunt of Muhammad while guarding a citadel, sheltering Muslim women, came across treacherous Jewish attackers. She beheaded one and threw the head outside the fortress, which kept the attackers from advancing further.10 Umme-Sulaim, in the ‘Battle of Hunaian’, took up the sword.11 Always one of the wives of Muhammad accompanied him to the battlefield. Among them, the daughter of Hazrat Omar Faruque, Ummul Muminin Hafsa, helped the Prophet in the strategic planning of wars, as she was an expert war strategist.
During the reign of Hazrat Omar, Hazrats Asma bint Abu Bakr, Umme-Abban, Umme-Hakim, Khawla, Hind and Ummul Muminin Juwaiera gave demonstration of their unprecedented courage, in the battle of Yarmuk. Asma binte Yazid alone killed nine Roman soldiers.12 Muslim women had shown so much courage and success in the battle of Yarmuk that they evoked jealousy in minds of their able male colleagues (Tariq Tabarani). Women fighters had shown great valour in the battle of Aznadan with archery and swords. In this battle, when Umme-Abban came to know of her husband’s death, took up his place and fought with unparalleled valour. Women fought in battles in the Abbasid era. In the battle of Byzantine, the sisters of Abbasid Caliph Mansour took part. Names of female Muslim warriors have been shining brightly in annals of India. South Indian woman warrior, Chand Sultana, embraced martyrdom, fighting against the very powerful Mogul Emperor Akbar, the great.
Service to humanity is a part of worshipping God. “He, who shows compassion to the creatures of God, is serving God,” the Prophet not only told the world but also made that a reality. The whole world is following his example today. The Prophet knew that women are by nature soft hearted. Therefore, they are much more suited to nurse and serve the soldiers in the field. For that reason Muhammad was the first to form volunteer corps with women to serve in times of war. Umme Salem and many more women volunteers from among the Ansars (Helpers) accompanied the Prophet in the holy wars (Bukhari). Today, we see numerous service organizations, forming women service corps to serve humanity in distress.
In Muhammad’s (PBUH) time, women were recruited to take care of the wounded. They nursed them, fed them and inspired them to fight. In the war field behind the tents, they cooked food, brought water, and fed the soldiers. They collected Arrows thrown by the enemy for reuse. Transporting, the seriously wounded to hospitals behind the front line, was a part of their war duties. In this way, they took part in wars along with the men and contributed immensely, to the cause of Islam. Their bravery and courage were unprecedented.13
After about fourteen hundred years, the allied forces (U.K. the U.S.A. and others) during the First World War (1914-1918), formed the Women’s Auxiliary Corps to help the Armed Forces.
The wives of the Prophet excelled in the knowledge of the Qurän and the Traditions of Muhammad, and were very masterful in their interpretations. They have narrated innumerable Traditions of Muhammad. Hazrat Ayesha, definitely, occupied a special position among them, as she alone narrated, at least, 2210 traditions (Ahadith). Apart from that, Umme-Salama and others like, Umme-Atiah, Asia bint Abu Bakr, Umme-Hani and Fatima bint Kais narrated 378 sayings of Muhammad. Ayesha delivered so many fatwas (considered decisions) regarding Fiqh that volumes of books could be filled with them. Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique and Hazrat Omar, during their Caliphates sought advice from Hazrat Ayesha, on important issues of the state. Hazrat Omar also held Hazrat Safa bint Abdullah’s opinion in high esteem. He gave most of the responsibilities of governmental procurement to Safa.14
Furthermore, Umme-Salma, Hafsa, Umme-Habiba Juwaiera, Maimuna, Fatima Zohra, Umme-Shuaik, Umme-Atiah, Asma bint Abu Bakr, Laila bint Kais, Khawla binte Tabib, Umme-Darda, Atikah binte Zaid, Sahla binte Shuhail, Fatima bint Kais, Joynab bint Abu Salma, Umme-Aymon and Umme-Yusuf (RAs) have narrated so many traditions that volumes and volumes of books can be filled with those.15 Hazrat Umme-Salma was adept in the knowledge of Marifath (not revealed). While, Asma binte Sakan was an expert lecturer and orator, Asma binte Umaish was a specialist in the analysis of dreams. Among the woman companions, most were educated and in them Hazrats Ayesha, Hafsa, Umme-Salma, Safa binte Abdullah, Umme-Kulthum binte Uqbah and Karima bint Al-Mikdad, etc., were very learned.16
In pre-Islamic Arabia, both men and women were adept in literature and enjoyed literary activities, but Muslim women excelled in literature and earned many laurels. Regular poetry recitation assemblies were held, where poets read their compositions with great zeal and fanfare. Abu Bakr was a poet of repute, used to preside over gatherings of poets, and recited his own compositions. His equally competent daughter, Hazrat Ayesha was also a poet and composed many poems in her lifetime. She memorized many poems and recited those. Among others, Hazrats Khansha, Shawda, Safiya, Atikah, Imama, Muridia, Hind bint Haris, Joynab bint Awam, Udih, Atikah bint Zaid, Hind bint Anasa, Umme-Aymon, Kanila, Abdbia, Kabsa bint Rafeh, Maimuna Balriah, Neaz and Rokayya (RAs), etc., earned fame. There was none as talented a poet as Khansha in those days. Ayesha was a poet, historian and an orator of the first order.
Educated and inspired by the teachings of Muhammad, generally, both the Muslim males and females established themselves in high and honourable positions in the society. Many Muslim-women earned reputation in business, and in other technical trades. Along with the men, the women were also in trade, commerce, agriculture, textile, weaving, stitching, metal and leather works, animal husbandry and even in accounting, etc. In those days, almost all-Muslim women, wove cloth at home, which clothed the members of the household. They were also proficient in tanning and colouring leathers. Hazrat Khadija was the foremost among the Muslim businesswomen. She had big import and export trade with Syria. Muslim women traded in perfumery, as well. While the principal occupation of the Meccans was trade and commerce, the Medinease mainly depended on agriculture. Likewise, their womenfolk also worked in the field along with their males.
Muslim women knew the use of metal like gold, silver, copper and iron. They also knew how to process these metals chemically to make them useable. Ayesha learnt the chemical processing of metal from the Prophet. In science, especially in chemistry and medicine, she was extraordinarily gifted. The science of chemistry, as all other branches of learning, was not as advanced as it is today. Ayesha did research in chemistry and taught others. Among her students Khalid ibn Yazid ibn Amir Mu'äwiyah had become famous. He collected all that he learnt from Ayesha and published those in his book entitled, ‘Ferdousul Hikmat.’ As a result, Jaber ibn Hayan wrote his now famous ‘Ilmul Kimiah’, which laid the foundation of the science of chemistry. Until today, scientists, all over the world (Ibn Nadeem Al-Fihresht Qasfuzzunun, Al-Waqidi Fe-Tadbir El-Kafi), hold this book with respect and admiration. Hazrat Orroa has said, “I have not known anybody who is better than Ayesha, in medicine or surgery.”
In pre-Islamic Arabia, both men and women were adept in literature and enjoyed literary activities, but Muslim women excelled in literature and earned many laurels. Regular poetry recitation assemblies were held, where poets read their compositions with great zeal and fanfare. Abu Bakr was a poet of repute, used to preside over gatherings of poets, and recited his own compositions. His equally competent daughter, Hazrat Ayesha was also a poet and composed many poems in her lifetime. She memorized many poems and recited those. Among others, Hazrats Khansha, Shawda, Safiya, Atikah, Imama, Muridia, Hind bint Haris, Joynab bint Awam, Udih, Atikah bint Zaid, Hind bint Anasa, Umme-Aymon, Kanila, Abdbia, Kabsa bint Rafeh, Maimuna Balriah, Neaz and Rokayya (RAs), etc., earned fame. There was none as talented a poet as Khansha in those days. Ayesha was a poet, historian and an orator of the first order.
Educated and inspired by the teachings of Muhammad, generally, both the Muslim males and females established themselves in high and honourable positions in the society. Many Muslim-women earned reputation in business, and in other technical trades. Along with the men, the women were also in trade, commerce, agriculture, textile, weaving, stitching, metal and leather works, animal husbandry and even in accounting, etc. In those days, almost all-Muslim women, wove cloth at home, which clothed the members of the household. They were also proficient in tanning and colouring leathers. Hazrat Khadija was the foremost among the Muslim businesswomen. She had big import and export trade with Syria. Muslim women traded in perfumery, as well. While the principal occupation of the Meccans was trade and commerce, the Medinease mainly depended on agriculture. Likewise, their womenfolk also worked in the field along with their males.
Muslim women knew the use of metal like gold, silver, copper and iron. They also knew how to process these metals chemically to make them useable. Ayesha learnt the chemical processing of metal from the Prophet. In science, especially in chemistry and medicine, she was extraordinarily gifted. The science of chemistry, as all other branches of learning, was not as advanced as it is today. Ayesha did research in chemistry and taught others. Among her students Khalid ibn Yazid ibn Amir Mu'äwiyah had become famous. He collected all that he learnt from Ayesha and published those in his book entitled, ‘Ferdousul Hikmat.’ As a result, Jaber ibn Hayan wrote his now famous ‘Ilmul Kimiah’, which laid the foundation of the science of chemistry. Until today, scientists, all over the world (Ibn Nadeem Al-Fihresht Qasfuzzunun, Al-Waqidi Fe-Tadbir El-Kafi), hold this book with respect and admiration. Hazrat Orroa has said, “I have not known anybody who is better than Ayesha, in medicine or surgery.”
Several woman Companions have shown blazing courage, fortitude and glowing boldness, in the war field and equally passionate zeal and adeptness in home-management and other trades. They were at the same time wives, teachers, mothers, companions, friends and advisers. Be it at home or in the war field or in any other occupation like, agriculture, trade, commerce or social work, they always excelled. By attending to their husbands and children, and treating and caring for patients, they gleaned happiness. In spite of being a daughter of a richman and brought up like that, Ayesha bint Abu Bakr was happy to live a Spartan life, as the wife of the Prophet. In spite of the fact that they were the queens, the wives of the Prophet lived a humble life, and never desired for the pomp and grandeur associated with this temporal life. They lived ordinarily with the people like one of them. Like the other obedient disciples of the Prophet, they taught Islamic diction to others. They were the best in compassion, philanthropy, righteousness, duty and charity. Rafida Aslamia, Umme-Muta, Umme-Kabasha, Hamana bint Jahash, Mayaza, Laila, Umayma, Umme-Zaid, Ruby bint Muzawaz, Umme-Atiah and Umme-Salma (RAs) were very adroit in medicine and surgery. Rafida was entrusted with the supervision of the hospital attached to the Mosque of the Prophet (Masjidun Nabubi).
In Arabia, singing and dancing at weddings and other happy occasions were common. There are instances where in the presence of the Prophet poems were recited. With the permission of the Apostle of God, Ayesha sent a woman called Arnab to sing at a marriage ceremony in Medïna. Besides, at marriages of the orphans raised by the Prophet, songs were sung to provide a lively aura, with the consent of the Prophet. At these functions, only Muslim women participated.
Starting with the dissemination of Islam, numerous learned women enriched the religion. In them, Ayesha, one of the wives of the Prophet, was endowed with unfathomable knowledge. Famous companions were her students. It is said about Ayesha that she was intelligent, erudite, and eloquent with presence of mind. Umme-Salma was a very sharp analyst and interpreter of Islamic canons, as well as, a researcher. In the annals of Islam, the names, of Ayesha, Fatima Zohra, Joynab bint Abi-Salma and Sheema, etc., are enshrined forever, as jurists of the foremost calibre. The zeal and earnestness of the Prophet to acquire knowledge inspired and influenced Men and women from all strata of life. On many subjects and matters of importance, Abbas and Jainul Abedin parleyed and discussed with Rubayyat bint Muawbez bin Arfa.
In Arabia, singing and dancing at weddings and other happy occasions were common. There are instances where in the presence of the Prophet poems were recited. With the permission of the Apostle of God, Ayesha sent a woman called Arnab to sing at a marriage ceremony in Medïna. Besides, at marriages of the orphans raised by the Prophet, songs were sung to provide a lively aura, with the consent of the Prophet. At these functions, only Muslim women participated.
Starting with the dissemination of Islam, numerous learned women enriched the religion. In them, Ayesha, one of the wives of the Prophet, was endowed with unfathomable knowledge. Famous companions were her students. It is said about Ayesha that she was intelligent, erudite, and eloquent with presence of mind. Umme-Salma was a very sharp analyst and interpreter of Islamic canons, as well as, a researcher. In the annals of Islam, the names, of Ayesha, Fatima Zohra, Joynab bint Abi-Salma and Sheema, etc., are enshrined forever, as jurists of the foremost calibre. The zeal and earnestness of the Prophet to acquire knowledge inspired and influenced Men and women from all strata of life. On many subjects and matters of importance, Abbas and Jainul Abedin parleyed and discussed with Rubayyat bint Muawbez bin Arfa.
Hafsa was very enthusiastic about education. Abdullah bin Omar , Hamza bin Abdullah , Haris bin Wahab , Abdur Rahman bin Haris among the men and Safiya bint Abu Obaidah , Umme-Mubasha Shaba Ansari , etc., among the women were her students. In the time of the second Caliph, Omar, a lady, named Laila bint Abdullah, was the supervisor of the market at Medïna. Fatima bint Kais participated actively at the election of Hazrat Othman as the third Caliph. Sheema, the adopted sister of Muhammad, was a celebrated poet. Hazrat Sakina, the daughter of Hussein was an acclaimed litterateur and educationists. Imam Rabeyya Basri was an imminently learned lady. Imam Khaleq and Imam Hassan Basri were her prominent disciples. She used to deliver sermons at mosques and interpreted the holy Qurän and Traditions.
The consort of the Caliph Haroon ar-Rashid, Zubaidah’s name would be remembered forever, for her contribution to education and social work. She ensured drinking water for the Meccans by dredging a canal there. The canal is known as the Nahr-e-Zubaidah (Canal of Zubaidah), to the Meccans. At the Cathedral Mosque in Baghdad, Fakhrunnessa delivered lecturers on, literature and literary figurative ornamentation, to big congregations. She is accorded the same status and honour in history as the other Islamic male scholars. Jatul-Hema, who was generally known as Jema, was a very brave woman. This brave woman fought war along with the leading male warriors with equal courage and vigour, as a war leader. Ladies were in the forefront of intellectual and academic activities. In the Abbasid period, Khaijuran, Waliah, Zubaidah and Buran participated in politics. Abul Farez Ispahani described Zubaidah as majestic in moral development and imperial in knowledge, in the period of Mustasim. Fazela was a leading poet during the reign of Mutawwakkil. Sakina and Sahuda, who lectured in Baghdad on history and literature, were known for their retentive prowess. While Joynab and Ummul Muwayed were jurists and Abul Farez’s daughter was a famous poet.
The women in Spain of the Muslim era were not confined within the confines of the four walls. Spanish literature was enriched by the able contribution of Nahujan, Joynab, Hamda, Al-Kaliah, Safiya and Mariah. There were many lady doctors, litterateurs or poetesses of eminence. Al-Walidah’s residence was the Mecca of all literary and intellectual activities for scholars of the time. Ariza was a renowned grammarian and Logician. The famous teacher, Silvia Miriam taught poetry and logic. Asmul Ambia, Ummul Hina, Imtiar Ramima and Busnia, etc. were at the forefront of female literacy activities.
In those days, scholars from different countries attended seminars addressed by the lady scholars, because of the very high standard of deliberations. Many biographies of these scholarly ladies are found in the famous biographical literatures of Arabia. Eminent biographer, Ibn Sa’ad has included the biography of about two hundred distinguished ladies, in his book ‘Tabakat’, from the first three hundred years of Islam. Ibn Askari (1105-1175) has published a book of eighty volumes, on the lives of the Islamic scholars of Ahadith of Damascus. This book was pledged to the memory of eighty noted lady teachers and he wrote another volume on them. This gives an idea about the depth and enormity of the scholastic achievements of these ladies. In his book called: ‘Darrul Kamina’, Ibn Hajjar (1372-1449), mentioned about one hundred and seventy scholarly ladies and admitted his indebtedness to their academic genius. One hundred learned lady teachers are mentioned in Al-Shakari’s (1427-1492) book called: ‘Al-Dawul Lami’. He also mentioned that he was their student. Omar bin Fahd included the biographies of thirty famous Muslim lady scholars of Ahadith, in his book. History bears testimony that many Muslim lady scholars travelled to faraway places, to acquire knowledge, up to the 12th and 13th Hegira.
Even royal ladies traversed along unknown paths to attain knowledge, leaving the comfort of the royal palaces. Joynab bint Suleiman was included in the front ranking scholars in Ahadith. In her puberty, Sahuda bint Ahmed acquired profound knowledge in Calligraphy, Islamic Science and Ahadith. She used to deliver discourses on many subjects with complete ease and perfect command. Her fame touched such lofty stature that many scholars of her era claimed to be her students. In the seventh Hegira the daughter of Fakhruddin, Umme-Hani, memorized the holy Qurän in her childhood. She attained fame and honour by gaining knowledge of various subjects, including Arabic language and literature. An Arab woman called, Fatima Al-Fudailia wrote many books on Calligraphy and Islamic Science, in the eighteenth century. She built a huge library at home for her own use. At this period many women lectured on different subjects including, Ahadith, its interpretation, Science, interpretation of the Qurän, land revenue, and Islamic canons, etc. The world famous traveller, Ibn Batuta has mentioned that he heard discourses of Ayesha bint Muhammad and Joynab bint Kamaluddin in Damascus.
Women enjoyed equal opportunities in the Arab world in every field. Their counterparts in the sub-continent of India, gradually, lost their importance, because of the switching to Persian from Arabic. They were alienated from the source of all knowledge, the Qurän which in Arabic, the language of Arabia. Those who established Muslim rule in the Indian sub-continent came from Turkey, Persia, Central Asia and other places from outside Arabia, consequently, a non-Arabic language, Persian, as the royal tongue took precedence over Arabic. On top of that, these non-Arabs to establish themselves in India married and mixed with the natives. That forced them to adopt many local social customs and consequently Muslim women of the sub-continent lost their eminence, and gradually, receded into oblivion. Along with their native counterparts, they also withdrew behind the curtain and remained ill educated or uneducated. Nevertheless, many Muslim scholarly ladies have enriched the history of the sub-continent. Repeatedly, they have shone brightly with dazzling brilliance, burning the veil with their fiery presence. These stars are none other than Razia Sultana, Chand Sultana, Nurjahan, Jahan Ara, Rawshan Ara, and Zebunnessa. The first two were queens, and commanded troops at the battlefields. Chand Sultana from the south fought bravely against the very powerful Mogul emperor, Akbar, the Great and embraced martyrdom.17 Nurjahan was the empress of the Mogul emperor Jahangir, and was very adept in the statecraft. Once, during an uprising, she took the initiative and unshackled Jahangir. Gulbadan Begum, the sister of emperor Humayun was a gifted author and wrote an excellent biography of her brother, the emperor. Jahan Ara the daughter of emperor Shahjahan was a poet. Zebunnessa, the daughter of Aurangazeb, the Mogul emperor was famous as a learned lady.
Women enjoyed equal opportunities in the Arab world in every field. Their counterparts in the sub-continent of India, gradually, lost their importance, because of the switching to Persian from Arabic. They were alienated from the source of all knowledge, the Qurän which in Arabic, the language of Arabia. Those who established Muslim rule in the Indian sub-continent came from Turkey, Persia, Central Asia and other places from outside Arabia, consequently, a non-Arabic language, Persian, as the royal tongue took precedence over Arabic. On top of that, these non-Arabs to establish themselves in India married and mixed with the natives. That forced them to adopt many local social customs and consequently Muslim women of the sub-continent lost their eminence, and gradually, receded into oblivion. Along with their native counterparts, they also withdrew behind the curtain and remained ill educated or uneducated. Nevertheless, many Muslim scholarly ladies have enriched the history of the sub-continent. Repeatedly, they have shone brightly with dazzling brilliance, burning the veil with their fiery presence. These stars are none other than Razia Sultana, Chand Sultana, Nurjahan, Jahan Ara, Rawshan Ara, and Zebunnessa. The first two were queens, and commanded troops at the battlefields. Chand Sultana from the south fought bravely against the very powerful Mogul emperor, Akbar, the Great and embraced martyrdom.17 Nurjahan was the empress of the Mogul emperor Jahangir, and was very adept in the statecraft. Once, during an uprising, she took the initiative and unshackled Jahangir. Gulbadan Begum, the sister of emperor Humayun was a gifted author and wrote an excellent biography of her brother, the emperor. Jahan Ara the daughter of emperor Shahjahan was a poet. Zebunnessa, the daughter of Aurangazeb, the Mogul emperor was famous as a learned lady.
In the Indian sub-continent, Muslim aristocratic ladies were very advanced in education and scholarly pursuits, a few centuries ago. Specially, the non-Bengali Muslims of Northern Province (Uttar Pradesh) could not imagine of women without education. Since the ladies were all educated, they could take the responsibility of the education of their children. Because of the link, via the sea with Arabia, the religious influence of the Arabs remained strong, along the western seashore of the sub-continent, and consequently, the conception of equality of women. Following that concept, the Sultan of Malabar kept the door open to women at every sphere of life in his Sultanate. It is gathered from a book called: ‘Tariq-e-Firishta’ that the Sultan employed about 15,000 women in various departments. In the reign of Muhammad Shah of Gujrat 12,000, women were trained for appointment at various departments of the government, including tax and revenue, science and culture, handicraft and music, etc. Later, he employed them in the police force, judiciary, accounts, Quränic education and teaching, etc. From the History of Gujrat, it is also gathered that the females dressed as males participated in the practice of archery and swordsmanship.
The education of women was confined to the aristocracy in the independent Bengal. In spite of backwardness, of the Muslims who despised the English and everything that was English, two outstanding ladies were born in the houses of the Zaminders of Rangpur, Bangladesh, in the north and in Comilla, Bangladesh, in the south. Begum Rokayya of Rangpur outshone all other women of her time. She broke all the chains of superstition and got herself educated. She devoted her life in fighting for emancipation and elevation of women, specially, of Bengal. In the name of her late husband, she established the Shakhawat Memorial School in Calcutta. This school caters to the needs of the Muslim girls living in Calcutta. She was a teacher, reformer, educationist, poet, authoress and litterateur. Nawab Faizunnessa, an offspring of a Zaminder of Comilla, was the other, who earned fame as a reformer, litterateur, poet, educationist and social worker, like Begum Rokayya. In 1873, she established an English medium school and a primary school in Comilla; and established a Maktab in Mecca when she went to perform Hajj there. She is the only women in the sub-continent who was the title of Nawab by the British in 1889, for her social and humanitarian works like, building roads, schools and mosques, etc. Two journals namely, ‘Shudhakar’ and ‘Islam Prachar’, published from Calcutta by her. The Nawab Faizunnessa College in Comilla, Bangladesh still bears her memory.
The education of women was confined to the aristocracy in the independent Bengal. In spite of backwardness, of the Muslims who despised the English and everything that was English, two outstanding ladies were born in the houses of the Zaminders of Rangpur, Bangladesh, in the north and in Comilla, Bangladesh, in the south. Begum Rokayya of Rangpur outshone all other women of her time. She broke all the chains of superstition and got herself educated. She devoted her life in fighting for emancipation and elevation of women, specially, of Bengal. In the name of her late husband, she established the Shakhawat Memorial School in Calcutta. This school caters to the needs of the Muslim girls living in Calcutta. She was a teacher, reformer, educationist, poet, authoress and litterateur. Nawab Faizunnessa, an offspring of a Zaminder of Comilla, was the other, who earned fame as a reformer, litterateur, poet, educationist and social worker, like Begum Rokayya. In 1873, she established an English medium school and a primary school in Comilla; and established a Maktab in Mecca when she went to perform Hajj there. She is the only women in the sub-continent who was the title of Nawab by the British in 1889, for her social and humanitarian works like, building roads, schools and mosques, etc. Two journals namely, ‘Shudhakar’ and ‘Islam Prachar’, published from Calcutta by her. The Nawab Faizunnessa College in Comilla, Bangladesh still bears her memory.
MODERN WOMEN IN THE EAST AND THE WEST:
In the modern world behind the liberty that the women are enjoying today in the east or the west, is the socio-economic transformation seen among them is the result of raising literacy rates in them. Spread of literacy brought them outside their homes and gave them opportunity to become independent and self-reliant empowering them to oppose male hegemony. However, unbridled liberty and faulty social order has forced the modern progressive women into unlimited corruption. Today, in both the developed and the underdeveloped nations women are encouraged to work with men and in some cases are forced to work. Those that are working outside for economic reasons naturally, remain separate for a considerable amount of time from each other. This separation sometimes diminishes love and affection in a relationship and gradually the partners drift apart even resulting into divorce. It is obvious that working men and women remain in the company of their colleagues for the best part of the day. Opposite sexes for natural affinity may enjoy each other company and grow to like each other’s. On the other hand, when both the partners return home tired they may not shower each other with same affection, love, and care, as they would otherwise have done.
Age-old convention of a male returning to the loving care of his partner who is entrusted with the care of the children and the homestead is gone. Working partners cannot expect the serene solace of a comforting shoulder. It is not fair for them to expect any special care from each other since both are working equally hard. So naturally, the role of a family diminishes nay totally becomes redundant. Back in 1947, in the pre partitioned India; the Anglo-Indian community was ill famed for altercation and fights between the husbands and wives. In them, generally both the partners worked back in those days. A disturbed family did not ensure proper care for the offspring. Resultantly, they strayed. Today it is the same in all communities, and it is the same situation in almost everywhere.
Age-old convention of a male returning to the loving care of his partner who is entrusted with the care of the children and the homestead is gone. Working partners cannot expect the serene solace of a comforting shoulder. It is not fair for them to expect any special care from each other since both are working equally hard. So naturally, the role of a family diminishes nay totally becomes redundant. Back in 1947, in the pre partitioned India; the Anglo-Indian community was ill famed for altercation and fights between the husbands and wives. In them, generally both the partners worked back in those days. A disturbed family did not ensure proper care for the offspring. Resultantly, they strayed. Today it is the same in all communities, and it is the same situation in almost everywhere.
This can be argued and argued endlessly, but the situation in the most advanced country of the world, United States of America, where the very foundation of family life, ‘Marriage’ is threatened as a institution do not augment well for today’s radical idea of ‘women’s lib’. Women should and must be liberated but not the way they are today. With liberation, they should also be taught to shoulder responsibilities. They must learn to uphold their liberty with dignity and serenity. Liberation should not be confused with simply denying all control of the man. Financial independence does not mean boundless liberty. The limits imposed by the union of a couple must be adhered to and both should be supportive of each other in all respects.
Financial activities are done with the purpose of insuring happiness by buying mundane comfort. In the life of an individual, the individual is the sole beneficiary, but in a union, it should be the union not the individuals. Both the partners should strive to ensure happiness of the union and in doing so they might be needed to sacrifice individual gain. It is a difficult proposition and can only be achieved if the partners are ready to lose themselves in the union. Friction and exceptions are natural but not to the magnitude that we see today. It seems that the newfound social liberalization is responsible for the alarming rate of divorces in the advanced countries of the worlds. Studies do support the contention.
We would like to quote a report cited by Reuters from New York, USA, Friday the 3rd July 1999, published in the daily Independent, The daily Star and all other leading newspapers in Bangladesh.
The number of Americans getting married has dropped to a 40-year low, as divorce and changing attitudes have replaced ‘I do’ with ‘I won’t’.
A study by Rutgers University’s National Marriage Project found that “Americans have not given up marriage as an ideal but statistics show a precipitous drop since 1960 in the number of couples who actually walk down the aisle.”
“The Institution of Marriage is in serious trouble”, said David Popenoe, who co wrote the study, “The State of Our Unions: The Social Health of Marriage in America” with Barbara Dafoe Whitehead.
“The current generation has grown up in midst of the divorce revolution, so they are extremely wary and cautious about entering into marriage,” Whitehead told Reuters commenting on the report.Financial activities are done with the purpose of insuring happiness by buying mundane comfort. In the life of an individual, the individual is the sole beneficiary, but in a union, it should be the union not the individuals. Both the partners should strive to ensure happiness of the union and in doing so they might be needed to sacrifice individual gain. It is a difficult proposition and can only be achieved if the partners are ready to lose themselves in the union. Friction and exceptions are natural but not to the magnitude that we see today. It seems that the newfound social liberalization is responsible for the alarming rate of divorces in the advanced countries of the worlds. Studies do support the contention.
We would like to quote a report cited by Reuters from New York, USA, Friday the 3rd July 1999, published in the daily Independent, The daily Star and all other leading newspapers in Bangladesh.
The number of Americans getting married has dropped to a 40-year low, as divorce and changing attitudes have replaced ‘I do’ with ‘I won’t’.
A study by Rutgers University’s National Marriage Project found that “Americans have not given up marriage as an ideal but statistics show a precipitous drop since 1960 in the number of couples who actually walk down the aisle.”
“The Institution of Marriage is in serious trouble”, said David Popenoe, who co wrote the study, “The State of Our Unions: The Social Health of Marriage in America” with Barbara Dafoe Whitehead.
The report said Americans are less likely to marry than ever before, those do marry appear to less happy than previous generations, and despite a small drop in the divorce rate, nearly 50 per cent of all marriages will end in divorce.
The number of marriages per 1,000 unmarried women aged 15 or older dropped to about 49.7 in 1996 versus 87.5 in 1960, according to the report. At the same time, the number of unmarried couples living with each other rose to 4.2 million in 1998 versus 439,000 in 1960.
1 Naba Kollol: 26th year, 4th. issue; Bilupta Bandar; pp. 635; Calcutta; July 1985.
2 Shaw, W., Text Book of Gynecology, Churchill, London, p. 106, 1948.
3 Graham, J., Any Wife or Any Husband, Heinemann, London, p. 44. 1955
4 Dalton, K., Porit. Med. J., 1:!48, 1959.
5 Erdelyi, G.T., Time, New York, p. 40, Dec. 12, 1960.
6 Graham, J., Any Wife Any or Husband, Heinemann, London, p. 44, 1955.
7 Dr. Deepannita Hazarika wrote in the Weekly Sananda, under the guidance of Gynecologist Dr. Sudeep Chakravarty, published from Calcutta, India, 8 November 1996.
8 Sirat-e-Ibn Hisham, p. 84.
9 Tabakat-e-Ibn Sa’ad; part-VI. p. 304.
10 Zarkani; part-II, p. 129.
11 Muslim; part-II, p. 103.
12 Asadul Gaba; part-5, p. 563.
13 Bukhari, Abu-Dawood; part-I. p. 252, 270; Kitabuttib, Tabari; part-VI, p. 2317.
14 Kitabul Umme-Shafei; part-I, p. 145, Asadul Gaba; part-V, p. 274 & 489.
15 Tabakat-e-Ibn Sa’ad part-II, p. 126.
16 Fathul Kuldan Balzuri; p. 477-478..
17 The Position of Women in Indian Life: SM Mitra, London, 1911. P.6.
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