Equality | Equal | Gender | Gender Equality in Islam

By habibkhan
February 2, 2015

Gender equality is the measurable equal representation of women and men. Gender equality does not imply that women and men are the same. but that they have equal value and should be treated equally. Equality, responsibility, and accountability for both men and women are a well-developed theme in the Quran. Islam regards women as spiritual and intellectual equals of men. For the Muslims, the important issue is who can become closest to God and earn the best reward.

Quran says:

“Whoever does deeds of righteousness, whether male or female. while being a believer – those will enter Paradise. and not the least injustice will be done to them.“[4:124]

Men and Women are Equal:

There is no difference between men and women as far as their relationship to ALLAH is concerned. Both genders are equaled in front of ALLAH. And they are both accountable before Him.

Every man and woman is an independent legal entity. Both men and women have the right to own property and engage in business. Both have equal rights to receive an education and enter into the world of employment. Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim. and to prevent women from getting an education is contrary to the teachings of Islam.

It is He who created you from a single person and made his mate of like nature in order that he might dwell with her (in love). When they are united she bears a light burden and carries it about (unnoticed). When she grows heavy they both pray to Allah their Lord (saying): “If you give us a goodly child we vow we shall (ever) be grateful.”

(Qur’an 7:189)

In light of the Quran:

The Quran states that both genders were deliberate and independent. and there is no mention of Eve being created out of Adam’s rib or anything else. It is not specified that which se. implying that for our purpose in this world, it may not matter.

“O mankind! Be conscious of your Sustain er, who has created you out of one living entity (nafs). and out of it created its mate, and out of the two spread abroad a multitude of men and women. And remain conscious of God, in whose name you demand your rights from one another. and of these ties of kinship. Verily, God is ever watchful over you! (4:1)”

We cannot be judged according to our own deeds unless we have the freedom of choice to do so. This free choice carries the responsibility to make the right choices or paying the consequences for the wrong ones. They are best exemplified by Adam and Eve.

Most Islamic rulings apply to men and women equally and both are bound by their obligations towards one another.

Men and women are two equally component parts of humanity. and the rights and responsibilities of both genders are balanced in Islam. Though their obligations might differ in certain areas of life. According to physical and psychological differences, each one is accountable for his/ her particular responsibilities.