Rights of Women in Islamic World: History and Current Trends

Abstract

The Holy Quran is an epitome of equality of all humans, irrespective of the gender, race, social and economic status. The Qur’an teaches us that Adam and Eve were created from the same soul- both equally guilty, equally responsible and equally valued. Quran changed the disadvantaged and suppressed treatment of women in pre-Islamic Arab. From the very inception of Islam, women have played a fundamental role in its birth to its expansion. The life of Prophet Mohammed S.A.W. is full of incidents how a man has to behave with a woman. Modesty, humility and respect for the women have always been present throughout his life. Unfortunately, the Muslim countries at times also have failed to enshrine the principles of gender equality in practice from the Holy text. Though the Constitutions across the Muslim countries have embodied the right to equality. The social conditions have not evolved to accept the principles. This paper is an attempt to highlight particular Verses from the Quran along with few incidents from the life of the Prophet Mohammed S.A.W. emphasizing gender equality and respect for the women.