Another question that arises is: Why is divorce granted to men? Why is the man considered the manager and head of the family, responsible for the fate of the children and the future, and less likely than the woman to succumb to the consequences and misfortunes of the times?
In response to these objections, it must be stated that the man is the primary caretaker of the family. He remains steadfast and unwavering under any circumstances and is not easily swayed by emotions. Therefore, he avoids making hasty decisions and, during familial disputes, maintains control over his words as he contemplates the consequences of his actions. On the other hand, women are more quickly influenced by their emotions, may respond impulsively, and are at risk of taking hasty actions. If divorce were placed in the hands of women, minor disputes could lead to serious decisions, potentially shaking the foundations of the family. The sanctity of family secrets is not something that can be entrusted lightly.
Another objection is: Why does Islam permit polygyny (having multiple wives) but not polyandry (a woman having multiple husbands)?
The response to this objection is straightforward: In Islamic law, pleasure is subordinate to wisdom and greater benefits. Allowing polygyny under specified conditions does not compromise the welfare of the family or harm the lineage of humanity.
In contrast, if polyandry were practiced, it could result in the destruction of family foundations, the disruption and weakening of human lineage, and the emergence of incurable diseases and psychological disorders.
Critics, particularly Islamophobes and the naïve, often raise the issue of dowry (mahr). They argue that dowry is effectively a price paid by the man in exchange for pleasure and enjoyment, akin to purchasing his wife. They question why Islam prescribes dowry for women, suggesting that it reduces women to the status of commodities.
The response to this objection is clear: Marriage is not simply a means for indulgence or pleasure for men. The giving of wealth as dowry signifies the man’s sincerity and lifelong commitment to his wife. In this dynamic, the man is the seeker rather than the sought-after and therefore gives the dowry as a gift.
As the Quran states: “وَآتُوا النِّسَاءَ صَدُقَاتِهِنَّ نِحْلَةً فَإِنْ طِبْنَ لَكُمْ عَنْ شَيْءٍ مِنْهُ نَفْسًا فَكُلُوهُ هَنِيئًا مَرِيئًا” “And give women their dowries as a free gift. But if they, of their own accord, give up something of it to you, then take it and enjoy it as something pleasant and wholesome.”
Dr. Muhammad Sa’id Ramadan al-Bouti explains: “The dowry that Allah has emphasized is not merely a financial transaction or a customary gift from the husband to his wife. Rather, it is a foundational principle that plays a significant role in strengthening the marriage contract, safeguarding marital life from potential risks, and ensuring the longevity of the union.”
Another reason for the obligation of the dowry in Islam is that men work hard for their livelihoods and understand the value of maintaining a household. If a man considers divorcing his wife to marry another, the existence of the dowry serves as a deterrent. As Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) stated: “أبغض الحلال إلی الله تعالی الطلاق” Translation: “The most detestable permissible act in the sight of Allah is divorce.”
Thus, the dowry helps to reduce the frequency of divorce, which creates numerous social problems, including children of divorce, widowed women, distressed men, heartbroken parents, and more.
The ultimate goal of Islam’s detractors in raising such issues is to undermine moral and Islamic values, dragging Muslims into corruption and immorality. They seek to exploit Muslim women and place them at the mercy of predators, stripping them of everything—similar to what is done to women in the West. A closer examination of books, articles, and websites reveals the status of women in the West and how they are regarded.
In summary, their aim is to reduce women to the cheapest commodity in the modern slave market. This assertion requires no evidence, as the position of women in the West is clearer than daylight. Everyone knows the challenges Western women face; as soon as girls reach adulthood, they are expected to cover their expenses by any means necessary.
To better understand this reality, these issues will be elaborated upon in the next section, Allah willing.
The Western world has forcibly imposed the notion of “equality” between men and women, labeling it as “equal rights.” However, this has caused significant corruption and widespread discord in society. By focusing on the illusions of such slogans, one might believe that women in the West are highly respected, enjoying complete freedom and rights.
In truth, however, Western women suffer from the contradictions inherent in these slogans. In contemporary society, the Western woman has become a victim of the excesses of the Western system. It must be understood that Islam is the only religion that fully honors women, recognizing all their characteristics and granting them a lofty status. Among both ancient and modern civilizations, Islam stands alone in bestowing upon women their true value and dignity.
By admin2
