Monday, September 21, 2015
Monday, July 6, 2015
ព្រះអ៊ីសា(ព្រះយេស៊ូ) ជាព្យាការី ឬជាព្រះជាម្ទាស់
គម្ពីរអាល់គួរអាន ជាគម្ពីរដ៏សិដ្ឋ ឬធម្មនុញ្ញនៃសាសនាអ៊ីស្លាមត្រូវបានប្រទានដល់មូហំាម៉ាត់ (ស.អ)ឬជាព្យាការី។ អល់ឡោះ (ក្នុងភាសារអារ៉ាប់អល់ឡោះមានន័យថា ព្រះជាម្ទាស់)មានបន្ទូលនៅ ក្នុងគម្ពីរអាល់គួរអានថាព្រះអង្គមានតែមួយអង្គឯងទ្រង់មិនមានដៃគូទេហើយថាព្រះអ៊ីសា(ព្រះយេស៊ូ) គឺជាព្យាការី និងជានិរសារបស់ព្រះអង្គ។ ព្រះអ៊ីសា(ព្រះយេស៊ូ) គឺដូចជាព្យាការីដទៃទៀតដែរ គឺជាពន្លឺនៃម្ទាស់ដែលបានមកបង្ហាញផ្លូវដល់ប្រជាពលរដ្ឋអ៊ីស្រាអែល។ គម្ពីរអាល់គួរអានបានអះអាងថា ស្ថាបនិកនៃគ្រប់សាសនាបរិសុទ្ធទាំងអស់សុទ្ធតែបានអះអាងពីមូលភាព(ភាពតែមួយ)នៃម្ទាស់ និងការគោរពបូជាលើម្ទាស់តែមួយអង្គ។ ត្រង់នេះ គម្ពីរអាល់គួរអានចែងថា
“ ពួកគេ(ព្យាការីទាំងអស់)មិនមែនចាំតែទទួបញ្ជានោះទេតែត្រូវបំរើស្មោះត្រង់នឹងម្ទាស់អល់ឡោះ ដោយប្រតិបត្តិតាមបន្ទូលម្ទាស់អល់ឡោះគ្រប់បែបយ៉ាងជាមួយនឹងភាពរឹងប៉ឹង និងតាមអង្កេតមើលអ្នកទាំងឡាយណាដែលបួងសួងសុំពីម្ទាស់អល់ឡោះ និង ហូតហ្សាកាត់(វិភាគទាន) នេះហើយជាសាសនារបស់មនុស្សដែលប្រកាន់យកមាគ៌ាដ៏ត្រឹមត្រូវ” ។(អាល់ហ្ពៃយីណះ
៩៨:៦) ជាពិសេសគម្ពីរអាល់គួរអានបាននិយាយពីព្រះជាម្ទាស់ថា“ តាមពិតពួកដែលមិនមានជំនឿនោះហើយដែលនិយាយថា ម៉ាសៀស (ព្រះអ៊ីសា/ព្រះយេស៊ូ)គឺជាអល់ឡោះ”។ ឯម៉ាសៀសខ្លួនឯងវិញមានប្រសាសន៍ថា“ ឱ! កូនចៅអ៊ីស្រាអែលទាំងឡាយអើយ ចូរអ្នកគោរពម្ទាស់អល់ឡោះដែលជាព្រះជាម្ទាស់របស់ខ្ញុំ និងជាម្ទាស់របស់អ្នកទាំងអស់គ្នា”។ ជាការពិតណាស់ អ្នកដែលតាំងខ្លួនឈរស្មើជាមួយម្ទាស់អល់ឡោះ ទ្រង់បានបិទទ្វាឋានសួគ៌សម្រាប់អ្នកនោះ និងត្រូវបណ្តេញចេញពីទ្រង់ថែមទៀត។ បុគ្គលប្រភេទនេះនឹងគ្មាននរណាអាចជួយបានឡើយ។ ជាការមិនពិតទេដែលនិយាយថា “ អល់ឡោះជាព្រះជាម្ទាស់មួយក្នុងចំណោមព្រះបីអង្គ”។ “ នៅលើលោកនេះគ្មានម្ទាស់ណាក្រៅពីទ្រង់មួយអង្គនេះឡើយ”។........
Thursday, July 2, 2015
The Truth About Eclipses
Comments on the article entitled "Flaws in the Ahmadiyya Eclipse Theory” by Dr David McNaughton
Saleh Mohammed Alladin
Retired Professor of Astronomy
Osmania University, Hyderabad, India
Retired Professor of Astronomy
Osmania University, Hyderabad, India
Hazrat Imam Baqar Muhammad bin Alira has narrated the following Hadees (saying of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa):
For our Mahdi (Divine Reformer) there are two signs which have never appeared before since the creation of the heavens and the earth, namely the moon will be eclipsed on the first night in Ramazan (i.e. on the first of the nights on which a lunar eclipse can occur) and the sun will be eclipsed in its middle (i.e. on the middle day of the days on which a solar eclipse can occur), and these signs have not appeared since God created the heavens and the earth.
(Dare Qutani Vol 1, page 188)
In the literature of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the dates of the lunar and solar eclipses have been taken as 13, 14, 15 and 27, 28, 29 respectively of the Islamic calendar. Dr David Mc Naughton has pointed out that lunar eclipses can occur on 13th, 14th and 15th and solar eclipses on 28th and 29th. Only under special circumstances, a solar eclipse can occur on the 27th of the Islamic month. Also, under special circumstances, a lunar eclipse can occur on the 12th. Hence the dates of the eclipses should be taken as 13, 14, 15 and 28, 29 or as 12, 13, 14, 15 and 27, 28, 29.
Perhaps the author is the first person to point out that it is possible to observe a lunar eclipse on the 12th. On the other hand, it seems to be well known from observational records that a solar eclipse can occur on the 27th. I present two examples taken from important books wherein 27th is considered as one of the dates for the solar eclipse.
Nawab Siddeeq Hasan Khan writes in his book Hujajal Kirama (in Persian, published in 1271 Hijri ) on page 344 that according to astronomers a lunar eclipse does not take place on any date other than 13, 14 and 15; and in the same way a solar eclipse does not take place on any date other than 27, 28 and 29.
Professor F. Richard Stephenson, who has devoted considerable effort in the study of ancient records of eclipses, writes in his book, "Historical Eclipses and Earth's Rotation" (Cambridge University Press 1997) on page 436 as follows:
"In the Islamic calendar, lunar eclipses consistently take place on or about the 14th day of the month and solar eclipses around the 28th day”
Hence considering the dates as 13, 14 and 15 for the lunar eclipse and 27, 28 and 29 for the solar eclipse for interpreting the prophecy in 1894, at the time of the claimant, is quite reasonable. The purpose of the prophecy is to help people to recognize the Promised Divine Reformer and the prophecy has served the purpose very well.
It may also be noted that Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas claimed on the basis of Divine revelation, which he received, that the prophecy has been fulfilled in his person. He also declared on oath that he is the Promised Messiah and Mahdi.
In order to understand the Hadees on the basis of our present knowledge we should note that the time between the astronomical new moon and full moon varies between 13.9 days and 15.6 days as mentioned by Dr Mc Naughton. Hence if a lunar eclipse occurs on the 12th of a month, the solar eclipse cannot occur on the 28th of the month because in that case the interval between the new moon and the full moon would exceed 15.6 days. If the Hadees had not laid any restriction on the date of the solar eclipse, the first date of the lunar eclipse may have been considered as 12th. But since the Hadees has specified the date of the solar eclipse, the first night in the Hadees has to be interpreted as the first of the well known three nights, i.e. 13th.
The Promised Messiahas also gave another explanation for the Hadees which is simple but very illuminating. He wrote in his book Noorul Haq Part 2, Roohani Khazaen Vol 8 page 196:
"Dare qutani has recorded that Imam Muhammad bin Ali has narrated that there are two signs for our Mahdi which never appeared before, that is, never occurred for any other person since the creation of the earth and the heavens and these are that the moon will begin to be eclipsed in the beginning of the night in Ramazan and the sun will be eclipsed in the remaining half of the month.”
Professor G.M.Ballabh and I had prepared a list of the years in which both lunar and solar eclipses occurred in the month of Ramazan from the time of the Holy Prophetsauntil the year 2000 A.D. We found that 109 times both lunar and solar eclipses occurred in the month of Ramazan over some part of the earth or the other. Out of these only seven pairs of eclipses were visible from Qadian. Only in the year 1894 the moon began to be eclipsed in the beginning of the night in Ramazan. The sun set in Qadian at 18 hrs 41 min and the eclipse of the moon began at 18 hrs 56 min. (Review of Religions Vol 89 No 9 September 1994 page 47)
For a detailed discussion of the fulfillment of the prophecy, please see my article entitled "The Advent of the Promised Messiah as vindicated by the Signs of the Lunar and Solar Eclipses" in the Review of Religions, Vol. 84, No 11, November 1989, pages 3 to 24. Answers to some of the objections have been given in my article "The Truth about Eclipses" published in The Review of Religions, Vol. 94, No's 5 and 6, May & June 1999.
Almighty God says in the Holy Quran:
He (Allah) is the Knower of the unseen, and He reveals not His secrets to anyone, except to him whom He chooses, namely a Messenger of His. (Chapter 72 Verses 27, 28.)
The remarkable prophecy of the Signs of the eclipses and its fulfillment in our age bears eloquent testimony to the greatness of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsa
May Almighty God guide mankind to the right path.
http://www.alislam.org/topics/eclipses/response-to-mcnaughton.html
http://www.alislam.org/topics/eclipses/response-to-mcnaughton.html
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
Equality in Islam
A: The Holy Qur’an states that all believers, without distinction, are equal and that only righteous deeds elevate one person above another. Muslims therefore have an immense respect for righteous and pious men and women. Islamic history also tells us that men and women both served in many capacities from being teachers, doctors, leaders and even as soldiers in battle when Muslims were under attack.
Islam however also recognises that such equality does not mean that men and women are the same. It notes their different physical and emotional strengths and in view of this sets out their key roles in life. The roles are therefore not a question of superiority or inferiority, but a question of natural capacity and proper functioning.
For example men have been assigned the duty to work and provide for their family and women have been assigned the role of motherhood and of looking after the household.
Islam places equal importance on both and also stresses that the roles are not exclusive nor inflexible. This does not mean that women cannot work or serve society or that men have no duties or responsibilities for their children or for their household.
It is interesting to note that where women choose to work the money they earn is theirs and the husband has no right over it, whereas a husband must provide financially for the whole family.
All of this is in direct contrast to the status of women before the advent of Islam
Status of women before Islam
Before the advent of Islam, women were treated extremely harshly. It was acceptable for female babies to be buried alive and women were treated more as chattels and objects of sexual pleasure. Islam changed all this, and taught equality of both genders.
It also granted women the right of inheritance and accordingly they received their due share as prescribed by the Shariah Law (Islamic Law). A woman is entitled to individual ownership of property as a mother, as a wife, as a daughter, and as a sister. – rights that were granted to women in England hundreds of years later.
It also granted women the right of inheritance and accordingly they received their due share as prescribed by the Shariah Law (Islamic Law). A woman is entitled to individual ownership of property as a mother, as a wife, as a daughter, and as a sister. – rights that were granted to women in England hundreds of years later.
The Holy Prophet exalted the intellectual and spiritual status of women and said that the acquisition of knowledge is an incumbent duty to every Muslim male and female. The Holy Prophet of Islam knew the essential part women had to play in the development of society, so he laid great stress on the upbringing of girls by saying:
"A man who has two daughters and brings them up and educates them to the best of his capacity shall be entitled to paradise"
According to Islam women are not considered inferior to men. Men and women have similar rights and in some areas women actually enjoy certain privileges that the men do not. In terms of property, marriage and divorce women have been given rights and in fact at each turn they have been considered and provided for as appropriate. It is true to say that Islam gave women rights which are unparalleled in the history of women.
Allah has declared in the Holy Qur’an that He has created men and women as equal beings.
He has created you from a single being; then from that He made its mate.
(Ch 39: V.7)
(Ch 39: V.7)
There is also a hadith of the Holy Prophet(saw) that:
‘A person who is blessed with a daughter or daughters and makes no discrimination between them and his sons and brings them up with kindness and affection, will be as close to me in Paradise as my forefinger and middle finger are to each other.’
(Muslim II, Section Beneficence).
(Muslim II, Section Beneficence).
The above removes any concept of inferiority leveled at women in Islam. Furthermore, there are many references in the Holy Qur’an that refer to the various spheres of life where the status of women has been elevated.
In summary Islam is the only religion that gives women the right to an education, property rights, the right of inheritance, and freedom of marriage and divorce. Similar rights were not available to women in Europe for many centuries after the advent of Islam.
Spiritual Status
The Holy Qur’an repeatedly proclaims men and women’s equality in spiritual status:
The Holy Qur’an repeatedly proclaims men and women’s equality in spiritual status:
But whoso does good works, whether male or female, and is a believer, such shall enter Heaven
(Ch.4: V.125)
(Ch.4: V.125)
Surely, men who submit themselves to God and women who submit themselves to Him, and believing men and believing women, and obedient men and obedient women and truthful men and truthful women, and men steadfast in their faith and steadfast women, and men who are humble and women who are humble, and men who give alms, and women who give alms, and men who fast and women who fast, and men who guard their chastity and women who guard their chastity, and men who remember Allah much and women who remember Him – Allah has prepared for all of them forgiveness and a great reward.
(Ch.33: V.36)
(Ch.33: V.36)
The Holy Qur’an is unique amongst all scriptures. It repeatedly emphasises this equality by addressing both men and women in its verses.
Islam teaches that both men and women are equal in the sight of God. Allah states in the Holy Qur’an:
But whoso does good works, whether male or female, and is a believer, such shall enter Heaven, and shall not be wronged even as much as the little hollow in the back of a date-stone.(Ch.4: V.125)
And think of the day when thou wilt see the believing men and the believing women, their light running before them and on their right hands, and it will be said to them, ‘Glad tidings for you this day! Gardens through which streams flow, wherein you will abide. That is the supreme triumph.’ (Ch. 57: V.13)
Whoso acts righteously, whether male or female and is a believer, We will surely grant him a pure life; and We will surely bestow on such their reward according to the best of their works.
(Ch.16: V.98)
This makes clear that in Islam there is equality between men and women.
And think of the day when thou wilt see the believing men and the believing women, their light running before them and on their right hands, and it will be said to them, ‘Glad tidings for you this day! Gardens through which streams flow, wherein you will abide. That is the supreme triumph.’ (Ch. 57: V.13)
Whoso acts righteously, whether male or female and is a believer, We will surely grant him a pure life; and We will surely bestow on such their reward according to the best of their works.
(Ch.16: V.98)
This makes clear that in Islam there is equality between men and women.
Intellectual Status
On the intellectual level Islam stresses that education is equally important for men and women. The Holy Prophet(saw) said:
‘It is the duty of every Muslim man and every Muslim woman to acquire knowledge’ (Ibne Majah)
On the intellectual level Islam stresses that education is equally important for men and women. The Holy Prophet(saw) said:
‘It is the duty of every Muslim man and every Muslim woman to acquire knowledge’ (Ibne Majah)
Islam gave women the right to an education over 1500 years ago. In contrast, it was not until 1886 that women were permitted to sit exams at Cambridge University and it was not until 1948 that the university would confer academic degrees on them. Women were first admitted to Oxford University in 1920.
Economic Status
On the economic front, Islam entitles women to possess money, property and other assets. (Ch.4:V.33 – … Men shall have their share of that which they have earned, and women a share of that which they have earned…). Upon marriage the husband is required to give his wife a dowry which then becomes her exclusive property. A woman can work for financial gain, without any obligation on her part to contribute to the household expenses. Islam also gives her inheritance rights, making it a requirement for women to get their determined share.
In terms of inheritance the Qur’an states that,
On the economic front, Islam entitles women to possess money, property and other assets. (Ch.4:V.33 – … Men shall have their share of that which they have earned, and women a share of that which they have earned…). Upon marriage the husband is required to give his wife a dowry which then becomes her exclusive property. A woman can work for financial gain, without any obligation on her part to contribute to the household expenses. Islam also gives her inheritance rights, making it a requirement for women to get their determined share.
In terms of inheritance the Qur’an states that,
For men is a share of that which parents and near relations leave; and for women is a share of that which parents and near relations leave, whether it be little or much - a determined share
(Ch.4: V.8)
(Ch.4: V.8)
In England, women could not own their own property until 1882 (any property a woman had would automatically become her husband’s). Islam on the other hand has always given women economic rights including: ownership of assets and property, earnings from work and rights of inheritance. It is interesting to contrast this against the fact that widows in England gained the right to inherit their husband’s property after 1890 – a right that Islam had given to women over twelve centuries earlier.
Social Status
Islam elevated the social status of women by ensuring that their they are treated respectfully by their husbands, sons and fathers.
Islam elevated the social status of women by ensuring that their they are treated respectfully by their husbands, sons and fathers.
A husband and wife have an equal role to play in providing support, comfort and protection for one another, fitting each other like a garment fits the body. (They are a garment for you and you are a garment for them. (Ch. 2:188))
The Holy Prophet (saw) has said,
‘The best among you is he who is best In his treatment towards his wife.’ (Abu Daud)
Women also have equal rights in marriage as well in divorce.
As a mother emphasis is placed on giving full consideration and respect to her needs and wishes. The Holy Prophet(saw) has said,
‘Paradise lies under the feet of your mother.’ (Nisai)
‘Paradise lies under the feet of your mother.’ (Nisai)
Men and women are not the same
Whilst there is no disputing the equality of men and women it is important to note that according to Islam men and women have been created in different forms for different but complementary purposes. This stresses a difference in role and nature but not a difference in status (as illustrated above).
Whilst there is no disputing the equality of men and women it is important to note that according to Islam men and women have been created in different forms for different but complementary purposes. This stresses a difference in role and nature but not a difference in status (as illustrated above).
On one occasion, the Holy Prophet (saw) explained that woman is by nature like the rib bone, (Bukhari) meaning that she performs her function in the scheme of things by virtue of the very qualities in which she differs from man and that it would be foolish on the part of man to attempt to cast her into his own mould. Her charm lies in being what she is and not in becoming an image of man.
Yes. Mosques are for both men and women but they pray in separate areas, most often in separate halls.
The reason for this is that during worship nothing should distract them from focusing on God. Also the postures during prayer in Islam mean that it makes sense for men and women not to pray together so that everyone can stay focused on God.
Some mosques around the world do not have a separate prayer halls for men and women, however, the vast majority do.
A very good example of a mosque with prayer halls for both men and women is the Baitul Futuh Mosque in London. It was designed to ensure that the men’s prayer hall in the mosque was equal in size to the women’s prayer hall – so welcoming men and women to the mosque without distinction. It also includes baby changing facilities and even a sound proof crèche so that everyone can attend the mosque with little distraction. The Holy Prophet of Islam(saw) is reported to have instructed Muslim men that they are not to stop their wives from attending the mosques, even at night:
‘Narrated Ibn Umar: The Prophet(saw) said, “Allow women to go to the Mosques at night.” ’
(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 2, Book 13, Number 22)
(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 2, Book 13, Number 22)
As well being a place of worship it is important to remember that in Islam the mosque is an important centre of learning for the community and plays an important role in the spiritual and social life of Muslim men and women. It is therefore for all to use and benefit from.
Verse references to the Holy Qur’an item count ‘Bismillah...’ (In the Name of Allah...) as the first verse of each Chapter. In some non-standard texts, this is not counted and should the reader refer to such texts, the verse quoted in Islamic FAQs will be found at one verse less than the number quoted. All Quranic quotes are from the translation by Maulawi Sher Ali as edited by Hadhrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad(ru).
In Islamic FAQs, for the ease of non- Muslim readers, ‘(saw)’ or ‘saw’ after the words, ‘Holy Prophet’, or the name ‘Muhammad’, are used. They stand for ‘Sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam’ meaning ‘Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him’. Likewise, the letters ‘(as)’ or ‘as’ after the name of all other prophets is an abbreviation meaning ‘Peace be upon him’ derived from ‘Alaihis salatu wassalam’ which are words that a Muslim utters out of respect whenever he or she comes across that name. The abbreviation ‘ra’ or (ra) stands for ‘Radhiallahu Ta’ala anhu and is used for Companions of a Prophet, meaning Allah be pleased with him or her (when followed by the relevant Arabic pronoun). Finally, ‘ru’ or (ru) forRahemahullahu Ta’ala means the Mercy of Allah the Exalted be upon him.
In keeping with current universal practice, local transliterations of names of places are preferred to their anglicised versions, e.g. Makkah instead of Mecca, etc. For Biblical references the King James translation is used unless otherwise stated.
Generally the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community follows the Hanafi school of thought in light of the guidance of the Promised Messiah(as) and his Khalifas.
About Veiling in Islam
A: Islam stresses the relationship between body and mind. In covering the body one shields the heart from impurities. Men are instructed to restrain or avert their eyes from women, and women are expected to wear loose outer garments and to cover their heads and bosoms.
The ultimate goal of veiling is righteousness of the heart.
The purpose of hijab (veiling) in Islam is primarily to inspire modesty in both men and women. Women are admonished in the Holy Qur’an to cover their heads and to pull their coverings over their bosoms. Men are instructed in the Holy Qur’an to lower their gazes.
In chapter 24, verse 32 Allah says:
‘And say to the believing women that they restrain their eyes and guard their private parts, and they display not their beauty and embellishments except that which is apparent thereof, and that they draw their head-covers over their bosoms, and they display not their beauty or their embellishment thereof save to their husbands, or to their fathers, or the fathers of their husbands, or their sons, or the sons of their husbands, or their brothers or the sons of their brothers, or the sons of their sisters, or their women, or what their right hands possess, or such of male attendants who have no wickedness in them, or young children who have not yet attained any concept of the private parts of women. And they walk not in a style that such of their beauty as they conceal is noticed. And turn you to Allah all together, O believers, that you may succeed.’
Muslim women wear hijabs and loose clothing to fulfil the above command of God. It encourages them to be modest and not to dress in a manner that attracts men. The hijab is a protection for Muslim women against the unwanted gaze of men.
A woman in hijab, is seen by onlookers to be guarding her modesty. Her message is clear – she does not want men to look at her.
A: In the Qur’an women are admonished to cover their heads and to pull their coverings over their bosoms. However the style and degree of veil varies according to the situation. The veil affords women modesty, respect and dignity and protects herself from harm and the evils of society by covering her beauty.
‘O Prophet! tell your wives and your daughters, and the women of the believers, that they should pull down upon them of their outer cloaks from their heads over their faces. That is more likely that they may thus be recognised and not molested. And Allah is Most Forgiving, Merciful.’
In light of this instruction some women choose to cover their faces whereas others prefer to cover their heads only leaving their faces uncovered and bare of makeup – both of which are valid interpretations according to various schools of Islamic jurisprudence. Some choose to adopt a compromise between the two by covering their faces when they apply make up.
The ‘veil’ can take many forms.
The Hijab generally refers to a head-covering which covers the head and the neck, leaving the face uncovered. These head coverings come in many shapes and styles but the primary objective they all have is to cover the hair completely.
The Hijab generally refers to a head-covering which covers the head and the neck, leaving the face uncovered. These head coverings come in many shapes and styles but the primary objective they all have is to cover the hair completely.
The Niqaab is generally understood as clothing that covers the face as well as the head, with the eyes showing, or with a netting over the eyes.
The burqa is a veil which covers the head, face and body of a woman from head to toe, allowing her to see from a gauze like material over the eye area. This style of veiling is seen in the Middle East more so than in the West and is the way in which some Muslim women choose to cover themselves. (Some cultural traditions can influence the style of veil women prefer to adapt).
The covering of the head is not a concept that is unique to Islam, but is found in Biblical literature also. The Bible taught the wearing of a veil long before Islam. In the Old Testament we read:
“When Re-bek'ah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel. For she had said unto the servant 'What man is this that walketh in the field to meet us?' And the servant had said 'It is my master' Therefore she took a vail and covered herself.” [Genesis: 24:64-65]
“When Re-bek'ah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she lighted off the camel. For she had said unto the servant 'What man is this that walketh in the field to meet us?' And the servant had said 'It is my master' Therefore she took a vail and covered herself.” [Genesis: 24:64-65]
In the New Testament we read:
“But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven. For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.”(1 Corinthians: 11: 5-6)
“But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven. For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.”(1 Corinthians: 11: 5-6)
There is no law in Islam that punishes a woman for not wearing a veil and according to Islamic law a man has no jurisdiction in forcing a woman to wear a veil or hijab. He can, if he has some authority over a woman (as a husband or father or brother) admonish, request, and in the case of a father to require it of his daughter, but absolutely no right in actively forcing a woman to adopt the hijab. However women are strongly advised to veil themselves as appropriate to maintain their honour and dignity.
Perhaps the view that the veil inhibits freedom and equality is a reaction to the original Biblical edict where St. Paul teaches
‘For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the Glory of the man. For man is not of the woman, but the woman of the man. Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man. For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels.’ (1 Corinthians, 11:7-10).
‘For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the Glory of the man. For man is not of the woman, but the woman of the man. Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man. For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels.’ (1 Corinthians, 11:7-10).
According to St. Paul the veil is a sign of man's authority over her. It is possible that St. Paul’s pronouncements may have led many in the West to see the veil as a symbol of inferiority, subservience and degradation. In contrast, the veil in Islam signifies modesty as well as serving as a means of protection.
A: Women are expected to dress modestly in clothes that do not reveal the shape of their bodies to men. The loose coat or jilbaab covers the woman’s body and hides the shape of her body from onlookers. The veil and a loose outer clothing protects a women and inculcates modesty in her.
An ‘overcoat’, or outer garment, does not have to be made of heavy fabric. There are many light fabrics that can be used for the summer months. It is seen that many men in the West continue to wear suits during the hot weather, so Muslim women can also be seen wearing loose ‘overcoats’ in hot weather as well. The overcoat, or outer garment, is a sign of modesty. It is in no way a hindrance and it certainly does not have to be heavy.
So, come rain or shine a Muslim woman keeps her body under wraps so as to protect her modesty.
Women in Islam/ WOMEN'S ISSUES
The Islamic teaching about treatment of women is one of
the most misunderstood. Western women generally view Muslim women as repressed
and deprived of their rights. The media portrays the stereotypical Muslim woman
as fully covered and dominated by her husband, with little more status then a
slave. You may be amazed to find, that for 1400 years, Muslim women have been
enjoying rights for which western women are still struggling.
Islam provides guidance for a peaceful and ideal
society. For such a society to exist, there must be a social system which
upholds the rights and responsibilities of each individual. Such a system would
provide a balance in the role and status of men and women, thus putting the
status of women on an equal footing with that of men. Such a society was in
fact created over 1400 years ago by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and
blessings of Allah be on him), through the guidance of Allah in the Holy
Qur'an.
This chapter provides you with an explanation of the rights that Muslim women
enjoy, along with other women's issues and their place in society.
TREATMENT OF WOMEN IN ISLAM
Before
discussing the position of women in Islam, it is important to understand what
the condition of women was before the advent of Islam. In pre-Islamic Arabia,
and in the rest of the world, their condition was equal to that of slaves and
chattels with no rights. Women could neither own nor inherit property. In
domestic affairs, they had no rights over their children or themselves; in
fact, they could be sold or abandoned by their husbands at will. If they were
abused by their husbands, they had no recourse to divorce. They had no real
status in the society, not being respected as wife, mother or daughter. In
fact, daughters were considered worthless and were often killed at birth. Women
were given little or no education, and had no say in religious matters, being
regarded as limited in spirituality and intellect.
These abusive conditions existed well into the 19th century in most parts of
the world, even in the United States, where some basic rights were given to
women only in the beginning of the 20th century. But in Arabia, in the 6th
century, with the advent of Islam the condition of women changed dramatically.
Almost overnight, women were endowed with equal rights and put on the same
level with men. In the Holy Qur'an, Allah makes it clear that He created men
and women as equal beings. He says:
"He has created you from a single being; then of the same kind made its
mate." (39:7)
This single verse removes any taint of inferiority leveled at womankind by men,
as in some other scriptures. The Holy Qur'an further ensures woman's equality
on the spiritual, intellectual, social and economic level. In addition, women's
rights were safeguarded by the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on
him), as he himself carried out the commands of Allah and treated women with
great honor, kindness and dignity.
SPIRITUAL STATUS OF MUSLIM WOMEN
The
most important change that Islam brought for women was to raise their spiritual
status. Allah has clearly declared in the Holy Qur'an that woman has a soul,
that she has the same spiritual capacity as man, and that she can attain equal
spiritual rewards by her own efforts. The Holy Qur'an says:
"But whoso does good works, whether male or female, and is a believer,
such shall enter heaven..." (4:125)
The Holy Qur'an is unique amongst all scriptures in that it repeatedly
emphasizes this equality by addressing both men and women in many verses. It
leaves no doubt as to the spiritual level of women. It says:
"Surely the men who submit and the women who submit, and the believing
men and the believing women, and the obedient men and the obedient women, and
the truthful men and the truthful women, and the humble men and the humble
women, and the almsgiving men and the almsgiving women, and the fasting men and
the fasting women, and the men who guard their chastity and the women who guard
their chastity, and the men who praise God and the women who praise God, Allah
has prepared for all of them forgiveness and a mighty reward."
(33:36)
INTELLECTUAL STATUS OF MUSLIM WOMEN
Another
area where you will find that Muslim women have the lead over other women is in
the field of education. Islam stresses that education for men and women is of
equal importance, and the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him)
laid down that education is compulsory for both. He said:
"It is the duty of every Muslim man and every
Muslim woman to acquire knowledge."
He also exhorted both to "seek knowledge even if you have to go to
China," and to "seek knowledge from the cradle to the
grave."
The Holy Qur'an says:
"He grants wisdom to whom He pleases, and whoever is granted wisdom has
indeed been granted abundant good; and none would take heed except those
endowed with understanding." (2:270)
In other words, only those who ponder can understand the signs of God and
come closest to him. The Qur'an further teaches us a short prayer which simply
says:
"O my Lord, increase me in knowledge." (20:115)
In keeping with these commands, you will find that Muslim women, and
especially Ahmadi Muslim women are well-educated. The Holy Prophet (peace and
blessings of Allah be on him) encouraged his wives to seek knowledge and once
stated that "half the religion of Islam could be learned from Hadhrat
Ayesha (his wife)." Indeed, after his death, the advice of his wives was
sought by the entire Muslim community. Now a days you will see Muslim women
active in many professions, such as medicine, nursing and teaching.
It is interesting to note that at the time Islam brought enlightenment for
women, in Europe a woman displaying any kind of knowledge was in danger of
being burnt at the stake for being a witch! Furthermore, most universities,
even in the United States, did not admit women to higher learning until this
century.
ECONOMIC STATUS OF MUSLIM WOMEN
Never
before was woman given the economic freedom such as given her by Islam. Islam
makes it clear that she is entitled to possess wealth and property of her own,
whether it is inherited or earned, and has full rights over it. The Holy Qur'an
states:
"Men shall have the share of what they have earned, and women shall
have the share of what they have earned. And ask Allah of His bounty. Surely,
Allah has perfect knowledge of all things." (4:33)
This verse established the equality of men and women in so far as their
works are concerned. Woman has the right to manage her own wealth. A married
woman is not even required to spend out of her own wealth, as it is the duty of
her husband to provide for her.
The Holy Qur'an also states that:
"...men are guardians over women, because Allah made some of them excel
others and because they spend of their wealth" (4:35)
This means that the husband is responsible for his wife's needs and her
protection, and he is to supply the money for the maintenance of his wife and
their home.
Islam further protected the economic status of woman by requiring a husband to
give her a dowry at the time of marriage. This becomes part of her exclusive
wealth, and her husband has no right over it, unless she wishes to share it
with him. The Holy Qur'an states:
"And give the women their dowries willingly.
But if they, of their own pleasure remit to you a part thereof, then enjoy it
as something wholesome and pleasant." (4:5)
Interestingly, this is addressed not only to the husband but also the
woman's relatives. They have no right over it. The common practice found in
some Islamic countries today where the groom demands that his bride bring a
dowry of gold and household items to the marriage is totally un-Islamic.
Finally, Islam gave woman the right to inherit. She is entitled to inherit from
the deceased in her role of mother, wife, daughter or sister. The Holy Qur'an
makes clear that:
"For men there is a share of that which parents and near relatives
leave, and for women there is a share of that which parents and near relatives
leave, whether it be a little or much -- a determined share." (4:8)
Full and specific details of division of property are
found in the Holy Qur'an (4:12-13).
SOCIAL STATUS OF MUSLIM WOMEN
The social status of women changed dramatically with the
advent of Islam. Great changes took place in the lives of women. Society was
given clear guidance by the Holy Qur'an and the Holy Prophet (peace and
blessings of Allah be on him) for the treatment of women in their roles as
daughter, wife and mother.
The pre-Islamic practice of killing infant girls at birth for fear of
humiliation or poverty was totally abolished by Islam. In the Holy Qur'an,
Allah says:
"...Slay not your children for fear of poverty, it is We who provide
for you and for them, and approach not foul deeds, whether open or
secret..." (6:152)
And
"... He creates what He pleases, He bestows daughters upon whom He
pleases, and He bestows sons on whom He pleases." (42:50)
After forbidding the killing of children, Islam goes on
to teach a father that he must raise his daughters in the same way as his sons.
In fact, taking good care of a daughter opens the door to Paradise for a
Muslim. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) said:
"He who brings up two girls through their childhood will appear on the Day of Judgement attached to me
like two fingers of a hand." (Muslim)
Thus it is clear that Islam raised the status of a daughter from that of being
despised and unwanted to being loved and cherished.
Islam changed the role of wife from being little more than a servant to being
an equal with her husband on all levels. The Holy Qur'an makes it clear that in
marriage women have rights similar to men. It says:
"Of His signs is that He created mates for you of your own kind that
you may find peace of mind through them, and He has put love and tenderness between
you. In that surely are signs for a people that reflect." (30:22)
Marriage is a harmonious union of two souls, with the object of marriage to
seek comfort from each other. The Holy Qur'an beautifully defines the equality
of the relationship with this verse:
"..They are a garment for you and you are a garment for them."
(2:188)
This shows that Islam regards husband and wife equal in providing support,
comfort and protection for one another, fitting each other like a garment fits
the body. Islam further teaches that the woman be treated with kindness and
generosity and be given equal rights in marriage and divorce. Before Islam a
woman could not initiate the divorce process even if she was seriously
mistreated. Islam permits her to seek divorce if absolutely necessary. (The
Islamic Marriage system is discussed in more detail in Chapter 3).
In her role as mother, Muslim woman achieves her highest social status, because
the mother is revered in Islam unlike any other individual. The Holy Qur'an
repeatedly directs Muslims to care for their parents, especially the mother.
Allah says:
"And We have enjoined man to be good to his parents; his mother bears
him in weakness upon weakness, and his weaning takes two years...."
(31:15)
The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) emphasized the
love and respect due to the mother by saying:
"Paradise lies at the feet of the mother."
In another hadith, he is reported to have stated when asked to whom a man
should be kind: "to your mother." When asked a second time, again
said: "to your mother." He was asked a third time, again the reply
was: "your mother." Only upon being asked a fourth time did he reply:
"your father." Thus he emphasized three times how important it is for
a Muslim to take of his/her mother and to give full consideration and respect
to her needs and wishes.
HIJAB (THE VEIL)
The teachings of Islam concerning hijab (the veil) and segregation of the sexes
is probably the most confusing and difficult to accept for Western society.
This is because of the widespread and erroneous notion that observing hijab is
a heavy restriction imposed on Muslim women. In fact, the very opposite is
true. You will find that hijab is a means of protecting women, and providing
them with freedom from many social ills. The word "purdah" is
also used to describe the concept and the practice of hijab.
Islam provides guidance not only for individuals, but also lays down rules for
the good of all society. In this case, the institution of hijab/purdah guards
the moral condition of society. Muslim women not only have responsibilities as
wife, mother and daughter, they also share with men the responsibility of
upholding the moral standard of society. The Holy Qur'an has laid down that one
of the methods that men and women are to use to achieve that goal is hijab. It
says:
"Say to the believing men that they restrain their eyes and guard their
private parts. That is purer for them. Surely, Allah is well aware of what they
do." (24:31)
And
"Say to the believing women that they restrain their looks and guard
their private parts, and that they display not their beauty or their
embellishment except that which is apparent thereof, and that they draw their
head coverings over their bosoms....." (24:32)
The verse goes on to list close relatives from whom observing hijab/purdah
is not necessary.
From these verses it is made clear that both men and
women are to conduct themselves with modesty and propriety at all times, and
especially when in each other's presence. This teaching is based on the fact
that Islam recognizes that "prevention is the better part of a cure."
So segregation of the sexes is prescribed so that situations which cannot be
controlled afterwards, are not allowed to develop in the first place. In this
way, erosion of moral values can be prevented, and society is safeguarded from
problems such as adultery, teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted
diseases.
The Holy Qur'an requires that Muslim women dress modestly, cover their heads
and wear an outer garment to conceal their beauty from strangers. However, you
must understand that this physical covering is the only first step to
developing hijab. The true and full observance of hijab/purdah is achieved when
"veiling" extends to a man or woman's mind and heart. This means that
one should veil or shield his/her mind and heart from impure and immoral
thoughts when in contact with the opposite sex. One's thoughts, words and
actions should reflect a sisterly love and respect towards fellow beings. This
behavior leads to one's own moral upliftment, and also creates an atmosphere
where men and women, instead of resenting and degrading each other, treat each
other with respect and understanding.
Another verse of the Holy Qur'an states:
"O Prophet! tell thy wives and thy daughters, and the women of the
believers, that they should pull down upon them of their outer cloaks from
their heads over their faces. That is more likely that they may thus be
recognized and not molested. And Allah is Most Forgiving, Merciful."
(33:60)
A woman who is following the rules of hijab in her dress and actions is not
likely to be treated in a disrespectful way by men. Thus hijab/purdah provides
Muslim women with freedom from some of the problems that women in Western
society are facing today. In Islam woman is not regarded as a "sex
object," nor is she exploited or harassed in this demeaning manner. As you
are probably aware, various feminist movements are trying to deal with these
issues today, sometimes with little success.
Islam has undoubtedly given woman dignity and honor through hijab/purdah, and
has provided a protection for her so that she can pursue her activities more
freely. This gives Muslim women peace of mind. You may have noticed that most Muslim
women who follow the practice of hijab/purdah appear to be more relaxed and at
ease with themselves. This is because Islam has reduced the importance of
physical appearance as a mark of self-esteem. A Muslim woman is free to develop
in herself other talents, and does not have to rely on her physical beauty to
achieve what she wants. At the same time when a woman practices hijab/purdah in
the true manner, she fulfills her responsibility to society and gains
satisfaction in the knowledge that she is able to gain nearness to Allah.
(For more information on wearing hijab/purdah, please see Chapter 4).
THE ROLE OF MUSLIM WOMEN TODAY
This
chapter has attempted to give you an idea of the position that Muslim women
hold in society, and the rights given to them by Islam. As you can see, no
other teaching so specifically addresses the needs of women. Muslim women have
all the rights that Muslim men enjoy, and in some ways, have certain privileges
which men do not enjoy.
To sum up, a Muslim woman's primary duty is her duty to Allah, and then comes
her duty to her fellow beings. Islam reminds her that her foremost
responsibility is to her husband and children. However, it does not restrict
her to that role; she has the right to go out and work if she needs to, but she
is not obliged to shoulder the financial responsibility for the household. She
is encouraged to seek higher education for her own improvement, and
subsequently for her offspring. The institution of purdah provides her with an
environment of respect and dignity. In no way does it limit her pursuit of a
professional career, a business or other kind of profitable activity.
Some misconceptions concerning the role of woman in society are prevalent
because unfortunately, some "Muslim" countries do not practice the
teachings of the Holy Qur'an. In these societies, the education and training of
Muslim women is very much neglected. This may be due to political reasons; or
to the fact that some of these societies live in abject poverty, where women
are deprived of their right to education. Lacking this tool, they are unaware
of the status Islam has given them and are still submitting to conditions
similar to the time before Islam was born.
However, within the Ahmadiyya Movement in Islam, you will find that women are
well aware of the rights that were brought to them by the Holy Prophet (peace
and blessings of Allah be on him). Not only that, the men in the community are
also conscious of their womenfolk's rights. Hadhrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, the
present Head of the community, repeatedly reminds his followers of their rights
and duties. Most Ahmadi women are well-educated, and active in many spheres of
life, while maintaining their dignity through Islam. One of the beautiful
aspects of Islamic teaching is that by defining the role of women in society,
and then by giving dignity to that role, Muslim women feel fulfilled in
themselves. This is a great blessing from God Almighty.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Holy Qur'an with commentary. Trans. and Ed. Malik Ghulam
Farid. U.K., 1994.
Holy Qur'an with commentary. 5 volumes. Trans. & Ed.
Malik Ghulam, Farid. U.K., 1988.
Gardens of the Righteous. Hadith (sayings of the Holy
Prophet). Trans. Muhammad Zafrulla Khan. U.K., 1980.
Ahmad, Mirza Bashiruddin Mahmood. Muhammad, the
Liberator of Women. Pakistan.
Khan, Muhammad Zafrulla. Women in Islam. Michigan,
1995.
See appendix for additional references.
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