Author: Um Saadiyah
One of the Advices of the Prophet (PBUH) for Women (Part One)
Abstract
Issues related to women and their position in the family and society are discussed from various dimensions. The thought and guidance of Islam, which is manifested in the tradition and practice of the Noble Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), addresses this subject from different perspectives. The emergence of the true personality of a Muslim woman, fulfilling her heavy mission and divine and human responsibilities, and attaining her true perfection require avoiding both extremism and negligence, and instead clarifying the correct perspective that is in harmony with human nature and based on religious teachings.
Since Allah has introduced the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as an example for the believers to learn from his words, actions, and conduct, one of the subjects repeatedly emphasized by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is women and the perspective toward them. The Noble Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), the perfect model of humanity, addressed women from different angles. If the Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) recommendations are considered, peace in families will increase, and the foundation for the growth and development of family members will be provided.
Introduction
All praise and thanks belong to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. We praise Him and seek His help. We ask for His forgiveness and guidance, and we seek refuge in Him from the evil of our souls and the ugliness of our deeds. Whomever Allah guides, none can mislead; and whomever Allah leaves astray, none can guide.
I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, the One without partner. I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger. May the peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon him, his family, and his companions.
Allah the Exalted has said: «يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ حَقَّ تُقَاتِهِ وَلا تَمُوتُنَّ إِلَّا وَأَنْتُمْ مُسْلِمُونَ» (آل عمران: ۱۰۲). Translation: O you who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared, and do not die except in submission to Him as Muslims. (Aal Imran: 102)
Based on this noble verse, it is incumbent upon every Muslim—whether man or woman—to strive as much as possible and act upon the commands of the Qur’an. Unfortunately, today women have become so caught up in materialism that they have forgotten their true position, essential duties, and fundamental mission. Many women of this era have made being the “light of gatherings” the ultimate purpose of their lives. Much of their time is spent on beautification and adornment, or in preparing the tools and means for it.
This does not mean denying cleanliness and beauty; what is emphasized here is the understanding of values and broadening of thought.
Today’s Muslim woman has forgotten that she is Allah’s vicegerent on earth, and, as Hafez says, she carries that “trust” which the heavens could not bear. Has she reflected on how she is dealing with this trust, which is the gift of free will?
In today’s world, there are widespread international campaigns and activities for women’s education, but we know that these teachings are often limited to temporary amusements, whose results are nothing but heavy expenses, competitiveness, fruitless anxieties, and most importantly, the wasting of human life. Every Muslim woman who contemplates in the desert of confusion seeks a role model and a good example. She wishes to contribute to the formation of a pure and Islamic society, to act upon the precious and sincere advice of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him), hoping to live a life full of blessings, striving to reform herself and raise noble, faithful, and responsible children—so that once again the glory of Islam returns to its original place, and from the narrowness of materialism she may reach the love of Allah and His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him).
The Prophet’s (peace and blessings be upon him) Recommendations for Women:
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The Woman’s Right in Choosing a Husband