Islam and Women

the fundamental rules of conduct enjoined on the whole of mankind by the Quran and the Hadith. Notwithstanding the natural differences between men and women, Islam accords them equal status. Besides conferring innumerable rights to women, Islam has enhanced their prestige in their families and communities. At the time of Prophet Muhammad, women were exhorted to act as imams and could lead congregational prayer. The Prophet was very emphatic about respecting women. He said, “A Muslim must not hate his wife, and if he is displeased with one bad quality in her, let him be pleased with another which is good.” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith No. 1469) Another tradition of the Prophet states, “Heaven lies at the feet of the mother.” (Musnad Al-Shihab, Hadith No. 119) These and other sayings of the Prophet show his mental attitude towards women in general. After the passing away of Prophet Muhammad around 632 AD, the strong edifice of women’s rights started to crumble down. Although the Quranic legislation sought to improve women’s status considerably, many evil practices crept into society. Triple divorce in one sitting is one such evil. The conferment of absolute right on the husband to divorce his wife at will cannot be justified. This practice is not in conformity with the true Islamic principles relating to the dissolution of marriage. The time has come to understand and interpret Islamic