International Women’s Day is a moment of reflection, celebration, and action. It is a day dedicated to acknowledging the struggles and triumphs of women across the globe. While the modern world often credits feminist movements for women’s rights, the foundation of female empowerment was laid centuries ago in Islam. The Quran and Hadith highlight the significant contributions of women who played vital roles in history, serving as scholars, warriors, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Their unwavering faith, intelligence, and resilience serve as an inspiration for women today, particularly in Pakistan, where societal challenges often hinder gender equality.
This article explores the status of women in Islam by highlighting remarkable female figures mentioned in the Quran and Hadith. It also connects their legacy to the modern-day struggles and achievements of Pakistani women, advocating for their rightful place in society through an Islamic lens.
Women Honored in the Quran and Their Contributions
Islam has always recognized the immense strength and potential of women. Several women are honored in the Quran for their faith, leadership, and contributions to society.
Hazrat Maryam (AS): A Symbol of Purity and Strength
Hazrat Maryam (AS), the mother of Prophet Isa (AS), holds a unique and exalted status in Islam. She is the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran, and an entire chapter, Surah Maryam, is dedicated to her. Her story is one of immense faith, purity, and unwavering trust in Allah’s plan.
Born to a righteous family, Hazrat Maryam (AS) was chosen by Allah for a special purpose. Her mother, in deep devotion, had dedicated her to the service of Allah even before her birth. Under the care of Prophet Zakariya (AS), she grew up in the sacred sanctuary, devoted to worship and completely engrossed in spiritual purity.
Her greatest test came when Allah decreed that she would miraculously conceive a child, Prophet Isa (AS), without a father. This divine event was a sign of Allah’s power, yet it subjected her to immense societal scrutiny. When she returned to her people carrying her newborn, they accused her of immorality. Instead of defending herself, she remained silent, letting baby Isa (AS) speak in her defense—an extraordinary miracle.
Her story embodies the strength of a woman’s faith in the face of adversity. Despite societal judgment and hardships, she remained steadfast, trusting in Allah’s wisdom. She is a role model for all women, demonstrating that purity, resilience, and devotion to Allah can help overcome the toughest trials.
Hazrat Asiya (RA): The Queen Who Defied Tyranny
Hazrat Asiya (RA), the wife of Pharaoh, is one of the greatest examples of faith and courage in Islamic history. Though she lived in luxury as the queen of Egypt, she rejected the falsehood of her husband’s tyranny and embraced the true faith in Allah.
Her most profound act of defiance came when she adopted and protected baby Musa (AS) from being killed under Pharaoh’s cruel decree. She saw the divine light in the child and nurtured him as her own, despite her husband’s orders to eliminate all newborn boys from Bani Israel.
When Prophet Musa (AS) grew and began preaching the message of monotheism, Hazrat Asiya (RA) recognized the truth and openly declared her faith in Allah. This enraged Pharaoh, who subjected her to extreme torture. Bound in chains under the scorching sun, she was given the chance to renounce her faith, but she stood firm. Her final prayer, recorded in the Quran, was:
“My Lord, build for me near You a house in Paradise, and save me from Pharaoh and his deeds, and save me from the wrongdoing people.” (Surah At-Tahrim 66:11)
Allah accepted her supplication, and as she was being tortured, she was shown her place in Jannah. With this vision, she smiled and embraced martyrdom, choosing faith over worldly power.
Her story is a beacon of strength for all those who face oppression. It teaches that true success lies in unwavering faith, even if it means standing alone against the most powerful forces.
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Hazrat Khadijah (RA): The Entrepreneur and Pillar of Islam
Hazrat Khadijah (RA) was not just the first wife of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but also one of the most influential figures in early Islam. She was a highly successful businesswoman, renowned for her intelligence, integrity, and leadership in trade. At a time when women had little financial independence, she built an empire through her remarkable business acumen.
Recognizing the honesty and trustworthiness of young Muhammad (PBUH), she hired him to manage her trade caravans. Impressed by his character, she proposed marriage, a union that would become one of the most blessed in history.
When the Prophet (PBUH) received the first revelation, it was Hazrat Khadijah (RA) who comforted and reassured him. She was the first person to embrace Islam and used her wealth to support the struggling Muslim community. Her unwavering support gave strength to the Prophet (PBUH) during the most challenging times, including the economic and social boycott of the Muslims in Mecca.
Her legacy proves that women can be successful entrepreneurs while maintaining deep spirituality and strong family values. She was a pioneer in demonstrating that financial independence and devotion to Allah can go hand in hand.
Hazrat Ayesha (RA): A Scholar and Leader in Islamic Jurisprudence
Hazrat Ayesha (RA), the youngest wife of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), played a critical role in shaping Islamic scholarship. She was highly intelligent, curious, and possessed an extraordinary memory, which allowed her to narrate over 2,200 Hadiths. Her contributions laid the foundation for Islamic jurisprudence, particularly in areas concerning family life, social issues, and governance.
As a key figure in the Prophet’s (PBUH) household, she had direct access to his teachings and daily practices. Scholars and leaders frequently consulted her on religious and legal matters, and her interpretations remain central to Islamic law.
Beyond her scholarly contributions, Hazrat Ayesha (RA) was politically active. After the passing of the Prophet (PBUH), she played a role in shaping the early Muslim community. She even led an army during the Battle of the Camel, demonstrating that women had an active role in political affairs.
Her life emphasizes the importance of education and intellectual leadership for women. She shattered societal norms by proving that women can be authorities in knowledge, legal matters, and governance.
Hazrat Fatimah (RA): The Ideal Daughter and Social Reformer
Hazrat Fatimah (RA), the beloved daughter of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), was a model of kindness, patience, and devotion. She was deeply involved in social welfare and played a crucial role in supporting her father’s mission.
From a young age, she witnessed the struggles of Islam’s early days. She saw her father persecuted and humiliated, yet she remained his source of comfort and strength. Once, when the Quraysh placed filth on the Prophet (PBUH) during his prayer, she rushed to clean him and stood by his side, despite being a child.
Her marriage to Hazrat Ali (RA) was one of simplicity and deep faith. Together, they raised sons who would later become legendary figures in Islamic history—Hazrat Hassan (RA) and Hazrat Hussain (RA).
Despite her hardships, including financial struggles and the loss of her father, Hazrat Fatimah (RA) remained steadfast. Her final days were marked by a strong devotion to Allah and a deep love for her family. She was the first to join the Prophet (PBUH) in the afterlife, fulfilling his prophecy.
Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of humility, patience, and dedication to social causes. She exemplified that true nobility lies not in wealth or status but in character and service to others.
Women in Hadith
The Hadith provides additional examples of women who were warriors, scholars, and political advisors.
A Political Strategist
Hazrat Umm Salama (RA), one of the most intelligent and wise women in early Islamic history, played a crucial role in shaping political and social decisions during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). She was not only a devoted wife of the Prophet (PBUH) but also an exceptional advisor whose insights influenced some of the most critical moments in early Islamic governance. Her life serves as a powerful example of the importance of women’s involvement in leadership, diplomacy, and decision-making.
Hazrat Umm Salama (RA), whose real name was Hind bint Abi Umayya, belonged to the influential Makhzum group of Mecca. She was known for her intelligence, eloquence, and deep understanding of social and political matters. Even before embracing Islam, she was admired for her wisdom and strong character.
She and her first husband, Abu Salama (RA), were among the earliest converts to Islam. Their unwavering faith led them to endure severe persecution in Mecca, forcing them to migrate to Abyssinia and later to Medina. After the death of her husband, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recognized her virtues and married her, making her one of the esteemed Mothers of the Believers.
One of the most significant moments where Hazrat Umm Salama (RA) displayed her political acumen was during the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah in 6 AH (628 CE). The Muslims had traveled to Mecca intending to perform Umrah, but the Quraysh, who controlled Mecca at the time, denied them entry. After tense negotiations, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) agreed to a treaty that seemed unfavorable to many Muslims, as it delayed their pilgrimage for a year and included certain conditions that appeared to benefit the Quraysh more than the Muslims.
A Warrior Who Defended Islam
Hazrat Nusaybah bint Ka’ab (RA), also known as Umm Ammara, was a legendary figure in Islamic history. She was one of the earliest Muslim women who not only embraced Islam but also took up arms to defend her faith. Her bravery on the battlefield, especially during the Battle of Uhud, remains an inspiring example of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering faith.
Hazrat Nusaybah (RA) was born into the Banu Najjar group in Medina. She was among the first women to accept Islam and played an active role in supporting the new faith. She was also present at the Second Pledge of Aqabah, where she, along with other early Muslims, pledged loyalty to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Unlike most women of her time, Hazrat Nusaybah (RA) refused to be confined to traditional roles. She believed in standing for justice and defending what was right, which would later be proven on the battlefield.
The Battle of Uhud was a pivotal moment in Islamic history. The Muslims initially gained the upper hand against the Quraysh army, but due to a strategic mistake, the battle took a dangerous turn. The enemy forces regrouped and launched a fierce counterattack, targeting the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) himself.
Hazrat Nusaybah (RA) had initially joined the battle to provide water and aid to the wounded. However, when she saw that the Prophet (PBUH) was in grave danger and that many warriors had fled, she did not hesitate to act. She grabbed a sword and shield and rushed into the battlefield, placing herself between the Prophet (PBUH) and the attacking soldiers.
With extraordinary skill and determination, she fought off enemy soldiers who were trying to harm the Prophet (PBUH). She blocked blows with her shield, struck back with her sword, and stood firm despite the chaos around her. She was one of the few who remained by the Prophet’s (PBUH) side when others had retreated in fear.
A Nurse and Caregiver
Beyond the battlefield, Hazrat Umm Ammara (RA) dedicated herself to caring for the wounded. She understood the pain and suffering of those who fought in the path of Islam, tending to their injuries with tenderness and skill. Her role was crucial in maintaining the strength of the Muslim army, as warriors needed proper care to recover and fight again.
Her ability to balance her fierce bravery in combat with her nurturing role as a healer made her a true embodiment of strength and compassion. She set a precedent for women in Islamic history, proving that they were not only capable of defending their faith but also of playing a crucial role in humanitarian service.
Her devotion to Islam did not waver in the years following the Battle of Uhud. She participated in later battles and continued to serve as both a warrior and a nurse. During the Battle of Yamama, she lost one of her arms while fighting against false prophets, yet she remained steadfast in her mission.
Her entire life was dedicated to serving Islam—whether by defending it on the battlefield, healing the wounded, or standing firm in her faith.
The Role of Women in Modern Pakistan
Women in modern Pakistan are playing a crucial role in shaping the country’s future. Despite facing challenges, they continue to make significant contributions in politics, education, healthcare, business, media, and social activism. Their role is evolving as they break stereotypes and assert their rights in society.
1. Women in Politics
Pakistani women have been actively involved in politics, with several holding key leadership positions. Benazir Bhutto made history as the first female Prime Minister of Pakistan and the Muslim world. Today, women politicians continue to advocate for progressive policies, gender equality, and social reforms. The reserved seats for women in the National and Provincial Assemblies ensure their representation in decision-making.
2. Women in Business and Entrepreneurship
Women entrepreneurs are reshaping Pakistan’s business landscape. From running small startups to leading major corporations, they are proving their potential. Initiatives like Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry and SMEDA’s Women Entrepreneurship Development Program support female business owners. Online platforms and social media have also enabled many women to establish successful home-based businesses.
3. Women in Media and Journalism
Women journalists and anchors have become powerful voices in the media industry. They report on critical issues, conduct investigative journalism, and raise awareness about women’s rights. Figures like Asma Shirazi, Mehmal Sarfraz, and Sana Bucha have challenged gender biases in the field of journalism. However, female media professionals still face harassment and censorship threats.
4. Women in Healthcare and Science
Women are making vital contributions in medicine, research, and healthcare services. Female doctors, nurses, and medical researchers have been at the forefront, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Scientists like Dr. Tasneem Zehra Husain and Dr. Shamshad Akhtar have gained global recognition for their contributions to physics and economics.
5. Women in Sports
Despite societal challenges, Pakistani women are making their mark in sports. Cricketers like Sana Mir and Bismah Maroof have represented Pakistan internationally, while athletes like Arshad Nadeem and Maria Toorpakai have broken barriers in weightlifting and squash. Their achievements inspire more young women to pursue sports professionally.
6. Women’s Rights and Social Activism
Pakistani women activists are fighting for gender equality and social justice. Movements like Aurat March and organizations like Acid Survivors Foundation and Edhi Foundation are working to uplift women and address issues like domestic violence, honor killings, and workplace harassment. Legal reforms such as the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act have strengthened women’s rights.
Islam and the Future of Women’s Empowerment in Pakistan
Islam has never restricted women; rather, it has uplifted them by recognizing their intelligence, strength, and contributions. The stories of the women mentioned in the Quran and Hadith serve as powerful reminders that women can be scholars, leaders, business owners, and warriors for justice.
Pakistan must fully embrace these teachings and ensure that women are given equal opportunities to lead, learn, and contribute. Strengthening gender equality laws, increasing representation in decision-making roles, and fostering an environment of respect and dignity for women will be key to national progress.
On this Women’s Day, let us acknowledge that their stories are not just historical anecdotes; they are a guiding light for a better. By following their example, we can create a society where women are not only empowered but celebrated for their immense contributions.
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