On International Women's Day,
Women are always to be honoured, not only on this international day dedicated to celebrating humanity's gratitude towards them but honouring them is an ongoing obligation. Rational individuals, believers, understand that women are created by Allah alongside men. They are both essential, with Allah creating them as diverse peoples and tribes to foster understanding among one another. Allah has established balance and righteousness between the two genders.
Allah has assigned tasks to both men and women, promising them the fullest reward for their deeds: "Whoever does good deeds, whether male or female, and is a believer, we will surely grant them a good life, and We will surely reward them according to the best of what they used to do." (Quran, An-Nahl 97). Also, "And their Lord responded to them, 'Never will I allow to be lost the work of [any] worker among you, whether male or female.'" (Quran, Al Imran 159).
Allah has elevated the status of women in His beloved book, emphasizing their importance in numerous instances. He recommends treating them well and grants them the right to live with dignity. In addressing the conscience of men even before Islam, Allah gently reprimands them for their disdain at the birth of a female child, reminding them that the birth of a daughter should be a cause for joy and optimism: "And when the girl [who was] buried alive is asked, for what sin she was killed?" (Quran, Al-Nahl 58). Allah has made women symbols of goodness and hope, honouring them by entrusting them with the continuation of mankind through childbirth. He has bestowed upon them the responsibility of pregnancy and childbirth, signifying their patience, strength, and innate ability to nurture and care for His creation.
Furthermore, Allah has enjoined kindness towards mothers, commanding: "And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness." (Quran, Al-Ankabut 8). He has ensured women's rights to inheritance and marriage dowries, commanding husbands to treat their wives with kindness: "And live with them in kindness." (Quran, An-Nisa 19). The Prophet Muhammad, the Mercy to Mankind, advised treating women well, stating: "The best among you are those who are best to their wives, and I am the best among you to my wives." He also recommended gentleness towards women: "Handle the vessels (i.e., women) gently." This is because of their delicate nature, akin to how easily vessels break.
Allah provides examples of women to be followed in various situations requiring leadership, good conduct, and wisdom in decision-making. For instance, the mother of Moses, who displayed remarkable courage by entrusting her son to Allah's care, and the wife of Pharaoh, who demonstrated independence of thought and righteousness despite her husband's tyranny. Khadija, the Prophet Muhammad's wife, exemplifies openness and trust, entrusting her business affairs to the trustworthy Prophet.
Additionally, Aisha played a pivotal role in the transmission of hadith, showcasing integrity and leadership. The Prophet's wives and the mothers of believers set examples of sincerity in caring for their families and wisdom in societal service, even participating in battles when necessary.
Recognizing the significant role of women and the responsibilities bestowed upon them by Allah, we stand alongside them, acknowledging their contributions as mothers, wives, daughters, and sisters. Together, men and women shoulder responsibilities, complementing one another.
As we honour women on this day, we must remember those enduring hardship and suffering, particularly the women in Gaza. We extend our prayers for their patience, solace, and relief, recognizing their resilience in the face of adversity.
God has elevated the status of women in His beloved book, emphasizing their importance in numerous instances. He recommends treating them well and grants them the right to live with dignity. In addressing the conscience of men even before Islam, God gently reprimands them for their disdain at the birth of a female child, reminding them that the birth of a daughter should be a cause for joy and optimism: "And when the girl [who was] buried alive is asked, for what sin she was killed?" (Quran, Al-Nahl 58). God has made women symbols of goodness and hope, honouring them by entrusting them with the continuation of mankind through childbirth. He has bestowed upon them the responsibility of pregnancy and childbirth, signifying their patience, strength, and innate ability to nurture and care for His creation.
Furthermore, God has enjoined kindness towards mothers, commanding: "And We have enjoined upon man [care] for his parents. His mother carried him, [increasing her] in weakness upon weakness." (Quran, Al-Ankabut 8). He has ensured women's rights to inheritance and marriage dowries, commanding husbands to treat their wives with kindness: "And live with them in kindness." (Quran, An-Nisa 19). The Prophet Muhammad, the Mercy to Mankind, advised treating women well, stating: "The best among you are those who are best to their wives, and I am the best among you to my wives." He also recommended gentleness towards women: "Handle the vessels (i.e., women) gently." This is because of their delicate nature, akin to how easily vessels break.
God provides examples of women to be followed in various situations requiring leadership, good conduct, and wisdom in decision-making. For instance, the mother of Moses, who displayed remarkable courage by entrusting her son to God's care, and the wife of Pharaoh, who demonstrated independence of thought and righteousness despite her husband's tyranny. Khadija, the Prophet Muhammad's wife, exemplifies openness and trust, entrusting her business affairs to the trustworthy Prophet.
Additionally, Aisha played a pivotal role in the transmission of hadith, showcasing integrity and leadership. The Prophet's wives and the mothers of believers set examples of sincerity in caring for their families and wisdom in societal service, even participating in battles when necessary.
Recognizing the significant role of women and the responsibilities bestowed upon them by God, we stand alongside them, acknowledging their contributions as mothers, wives, daughters, and sisters. Together, men and women shoulder responsibilities, complementing one another.
As we honour women on this day, we must remember those enduring hardship and suffering, particularly the women in Gaza. We extend our prayers for their patience, solace, and relief, recognizing their resilience in the face of adversity.
