Women in Islamic Society

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, although the western media often portrays Arab-Muslim women as being somewhat oppressed and having a low status in society, this description is one of the biggest misunderstandings that the western world has about Islam and the rights of Muslim women. The author points out that, from a purely Islamic perspective, women are equal to men in their everyday activities and often are even treated with more respect than their male counterparts; however, the cultures and traditions of different Muslim states and groups, not the religion of Islam, might consider men to be superior to women. The paper relates that the Holy Quran is addressed to all Muslims and makes no differentiation between men and women; in other aspects of social life, such as the daily prayers, fasting or pilgrimage, a woman is no different from a man.

From the Paper:

"According to Islamic law, women also cannot be forced to marry anyone without their appropriate consent. Besides all other necessities for her protection at the time of marriage, it has been stated in Islam that a woman has the full right to her Mahr, a marriage gift, which is presented to her by her husband and is included in the nuptial contract, and that such ownership does not transfer to her father or husband. The concept of Mahr in Islam is neither an actual or symbolic price for the woman, as was the case in certain cultures, but rather it is a gift symbolizing love and affection and a sign to show their status and respect among the man's family. Furthermore, the rules for married life in Islam are clear and in line with other countries. The Quran states, "And they (women) have rights similar to those (of men) over them, and men are a degree above them." (Qur'an 2:228). "

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