Author: Abdul Hameed Nowrozi
Islamic Hijab and Women in Pre-Islamic and Islamic Societies (Part Three)
Women in Pre-Islamic Ignorance
In the era of pre-Islamic ignorance, women did not have any human or social value; their only duty was to serve men and give birth to sons. The misguidance and savagery of these people were evident in the humiliation and poverty of women. For instance, if a woman gave birth to a daughter, she would not only be hated by society but also shunned and condemned to live in isolation for a long time. In some cases, daughters were even buried alive, and mothers had no right to defend or care for the children they had carried for months; they did not dare to protest or resist their husbands’ will.
In Japan, men had considerable power and the right to enslave or sell women. Women were under the guardianship of their fathers, husbands, or sons throughout their lives. Girls had no share of the inheritance and were deprived of the opportunity to learn science or literacy. They were frequently beaten and insulted by their fathers and husbands and were forced to perform hard labor.
In India, a woman was seen as an extension of her husband, with life after his death deemed impermissible. Widows were often thrown onto the funeral pyre on the 40th day after their husband’s death; the best women were those who willingly joined their husbands in death. Women in India, except for those from upper classes, were deprived of education and knowledge. They did not have property rights akin to slaves, and their wealth was appropriated by their husbands and masters.
In the Sassanid Empire, women were not considered “persons”; instead, they were viewed as “commodities.” In other words, women were not recognized as individuals with rights, but rather as possessions that could belong to someone.
In France in 589 ADS, after much debate, a conclusion was reached: women are also human beings; however, they were still seen as created primarily to serve men.
Women in Modern Ignorance
Women’s oppression and deprivation of human rights are not confined to the past; in the modern era of science and technology, women have often faced oppression and injustice that surpass what men experience. The introduction of women into the public sphere in the last century in Europe, although framed under the banners of “women’s freedom” and “equality between men and women,” was in fact a scheme to exploit women for men’s benefit. Women distanced themselves from their innate natures and increasingly served men.
Another misfortune for women has been the sexual exploitation they endure. Certain philosophers in Europe have interpreted the limited nature of husband-wife relationships as a sign of backwardness and a violation of freedom. However, this has led to the disintegration of the family unit. With the breakdown of familial bonds and the diminishing interest and communication among parents, children were left confused, lost, and devoid of parental love and affection. As they entered society, many were drawn to harmful influences, leading many of them to experience a profound emptiness in life.
Continues…
By admin2