Questions& Answers About Islam

How does Islam elevate the status of women?

According to the Qur'an, men and women are equal before God; both created for the sole purpose of worshipping god through faith and good deeds.

"O humankind! Be conscious of your Lord Who created you from a single soul, and out of it created its mate, and out of the two spread countless men and women. Be conscious of your Lord through Whom you demand your mutual rights and honor the wombs; God always watches over you." (Qur'an 4:1)

Islam recognizes women as individuals with specific rights. Among these are: the right to life, the right to learn; the right to earn, own and dispose property; the right to choose a husband; the right, as a wife, to her pre-marriage standard of living; the right to be treated equally; and the right to inherit. Women, like men, are rewarded by God for a righteously led life.

Muslim women dress in a way that is modest and dignified. The purpose of clothing is not only to protect oneself from physical elements, but also to protect oneself from immorality and pride. Some traditions of dress, and more generally, the treatment of women in some Muslim countries and societies, are often a reflection of culture. This is very often inconsistent and even contrary to Islam teachings. Prophet Muhammad said: "The most perfect in faith among you believers is he who is best in manner and kindest to his wife."

Why is the family so important to Muslims?

The family is the foundation of Islamic society. The peace and security offered by a stable family unit is greatly valued and seen as essential for the spiritual growth of its members. It is quite common in the Muslim community to find large, extended families living together; providing comfort, security and support to one another.

Parents are greatly respected in the Islamic tradition. Mothers, in particular are greatly honored. God says in the Qur'an: "And we have enjoined upon man to be good to his parents. With difficulty upon difficultly did his mother bear him, and wean him for two years. Show gratitude to Me and to your parents; to Me is your final goal!" (Qur'an 31:14)

Marrying and establishing a family is very strongly encouraged. "And among His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves; that you may find peace with them. And He put between you love and compassion. Surely in this are signs for people who reflect." (Qur'an 30:21)

A Muslim marriage is both a sacred act and a legal agreement, in which either the groom or the bride is free to include legitimate conditions. Marriage customs vary widely from country to country.

Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said: "When a servant of God marries, he completes half his faith." Marriage is the institution upon which families are based.

Does Islam give Women equal rights?

Yes, definitely. Islam teaches equality between women and men. However, in some Muslim countries and societies a patriarchal culture dominates, and women are denied of their God-given rights.

Nowhere does the Qur'an state that one gender is superior to another. God makes it clear that the only criterion for superiority is piety and righteousness…virtues only He can judge.

"O humankind! We created you from a male and female, and made you into nations and tribes, so that you may come to know one another. Truly, the most honored of you in God's sight is the greatest of you in piety. God is All-Knowing, All-Aware." (Qur'an 49:13)

Islam recognizes women as individuals with specific rights. Among these are: the right to life, the right to learn; the right to earn, own and dispose property; the right to choose a husband; the right to a marriage gift; the right to retain her maiden name; the right, as a wife, to her pre-marriage standard of living; the right to be treated equally; the right to seek divorce; the right to inherit; and the right to a final will.

Women, like men, are rewarded for a righteously led life.

"…Whoever does good, whether male or female, and is a believer, will enter the Garden (of Paradise)…" (Qur'an 40:39)

What does Islam say about wives and husbands?

"And among His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may live in tranquility with them; and He has brought between you love and mercy. Truly, in this are signs for those who reflect." (Qur'an 30:21)

Marriage is based on mutual love and respect. The Islamic marriage is a sacred contract bet