On the occasion of International Women’s Day, it is important to recall that many narratives circulating in the media portray Islam as a religion that subjugates women. This perception does not reflect the authentic teachings of the Qur’an and the Prophetic tradition, which recognize women’s spiritual dignity, moral responsibility and clearly defined rights.
The Qur’an affirms the spiritual equality of men and women. One of its well-known verses states:
“The believing men and believing women are allies of one another. They enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong.”
(Qur’an 9:71)
This verse establishes a fundamental principle: men and women cooperate together in building society and promoting what is good.
The Qur’an also emphasizes that a person’s value before God does not depend on gender but on righteousness:
“Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while being a believer – We will surely grant them a good life and reward them according to the best of what they used to do.”
(Qur’an 16:97)
Another verse explicitly mentions men and women together in all dimensions of faith:
“Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women, the believing men and believing women, the devout men and devout women… Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward.”
(Qur’an 33:35)
The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, also clearly emphasize respect and kindness toward women. In an authentic hadith it is reported:
“The best among you are those who are best to their wives.”
(Hadith reported by al-Tirmidhi)
In another narration the Prophet said:
“Women are the twin halves of men.”
(Hadith reported by Abu Dawud)
These words highlight a principle of dignity, balance and complementarity between men and women.
Throughout Islamic history, women have played important roles in society, education and the transmission of knowledge. Aisha, the wife of the Prophet, was among the most important transmitters of hadith and became a reference for many scholars.
Islam also recognized rights for women that were absent in many societies at the time of revelation, including the right to property, inheritance, consent in marriage and access to education.
For this reason it is important to distinguish between the authentic teachings of Islam and certain cultural practices which, in some societies, may have limited the role of women but do not originate from the Qur’an or the Sunnah.
On this day, the European Muslims League recalls that respect for women’s dignity, their participation in social life and the recognition of their rights are fundamental principles of Islamic civilization.
May cooperation between men and women contribute to building more just, balanced and peaceful societies.
International Women’s Day: The Dignity of Women in Islam
