Alsalam Alykom my Brothers & Sisters:

I would like to take this opportunity in being in this nice sabla, to give a short valuable information about women right in Islam, in some point I felt most of Arabic Muslim women misunderstood what rights does Allah gave us, and I think it’s our responsibility to enlighten them to their religion just to let them be proud of them self, I have this tiny book which hold a valuable information that written by a Western women who became a Muslim and I would like to share it with my sisters and brothers, so each day I’m going to post one page and to make it easy for every body to read.
Asking Allah to help me in doing so..Ammen.
hedaya

Besm Ella Alrahman Alraheem.

QUESTION AND ANSWERS ABOUT
WOMEN’S RIGHTS IN ISLAM

Compiled By
Lea Zaitun

Introduction:
Over the past twelve years since I embraced Islam, I have been asked countless questions by non-Muslim family, friends, acquaintances and even total strangers about what it means to be a Muslim. It soon became obvious to me that the average educated American seems to be simply: Love God and His people, make this better world to live in, do the best you can and let God do the rest. Islam, on the other hand, offers humanity far more than this, which Westerners sense, but can not fully grasp. Women, in particular, are given special rights and recognized responsibilities in Islam, and a deep respect, the same degree of which can not found in the West.

With the help of Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala), I hope I can dispel some myths that have been built around Muslim women by simple ignorance, and those hostile to Islam, not to mention the media, and Hollywood.

As an American women in Islam (and mother of three, al humdulillah) who has lived and studied in the Middle East for nearly twelve years, I have been asked to write a short, easily readable booklet about women in Islam for distribution to non-Muslims.

“O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye despise each other). Verily the most honored of you in the scale of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things)”.
(The Holy Qur’an –Al-hujurat 49:13)

By using a question-answer format, Allah willing, the booklet will be easier, and more interesting, to read.

The answers to questions that follow are based on my personal understanding of the Qur’an, the sayings of the prophet (peace be upon him) and the writings of Islamic Scholars. The sources that I have used are listed at the end of this book.

Finally, I would like to thank sister Ghada Angawi for her numerous valuable ideas, suggestion, research efforts, proof-reading and, above all, for her original idea that I write this booklet. Whiteout her support and efforts on my behalf, this work might never have been attempted. May Allah reward her.

I pray to Allah the Almighty to bless our humble efforts with his acceptance.

Umm Hassan

“ Who created me, and it is He who guides me; Who gives me food and drink, and when I am ill, it is He who cures me; who will cause me faults on the Day of Judgment” (Al-Shuara 26: 78-82)

Q. What was the condition of women in Arabia before Islam?

In those days women were treated like slaves or property. Their personal consent concerning anything related to their well-being was considered unimportant, to such a degree that they were never even treated as a party to a marriage contract.

Women were used for one purpose, and then discarded. They had no independence, could own no property and were not allowed to inherit, in times of war, women were treated as part of the loot. Simply put, their plight was unspeakable.

Further, the birth of a daughter is a family was not an occasion for rejoicing, but was regarded with humiliation. The practice of killing female children was rampant.

With the advert of Islam came the verse from the Qur’an condemning those who practiced female infanticide:

“When news is brought to one of them, of (the birth of) a female (child), his face darkens, and he is filled with inward grief! With shame does he hide himself from his people, because of the bad news he has had! Ah! What an evil (choice) they decide on. (Al Nahl 16:58-59).

And as part of a description of various events on the Day Judgement, the Qur’an mentions: ..when the female (infant) buried alive, is questioned-For what crime she was killed…(Al-Takwir 81:8-9)

Outside Arabia conditions for women were no better. In India, Egypt, and all European countries in the Dark Ages, women were treated worse then slaves. They were not regarded as human beings but as sort of a sub-species between humans and animals.

To be continued

Q. If things were so bad for Arabwomen before Islam, they must have really struggled to overcome their situation. how did they get their rights?

First of all, the rights of Muslim women were given to us by Allah, who is The Compassionate and The Merciful, The just, The Unbiased, The All-Knowing and The Most Wise. these rights, which were granted to women more than fourteen hundred years age, and were taught by the perfect example of the one who created us and who alone knows what rights are best for our female natures.

O ye who believe! you are forbidden to inherit women against their will..(Al-Nisa 4:19)

the most basic right of a women in islam is the knowledge and recognition that she never has to ask or demand or fight for her rights which are guaranteed to her Allah Himself.

Q. So just what are most of the rights that Islam gives to women?
Human rights:
Islam considers a women to be equal to a man as a human being and as his partner in this life. We have been created with a soul of the same nature as man's.

O mankind! Revere your Lord.. Who created from a single person, created, of like nature, his mate, and from them twain scattered (like seed) countless men and women;-- rever Allah, through whom ye demand your mutua (rights), and (revere) the womb (that bore you): for Allah ever watches over you. (Al-Nisa 4:1).

And in the words of prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), " Assuredly, women are the twin halves of men." (2)

Islam does not blame Eve alone for the First Sin. the Qur'an makes it very clear that both Adam and Eve were tempted, that they both sinned and were both forgiven after their repentance.

Then began Stan to whisper suggestions to them, bringing openly before their minds all their shame that was hidden from them (before): he said:" Your Lord only forbade you this tree, lest you should become angels or such things as live forever." And he swore to them both, that he was their sincere adviser. So by deceit he brought about their fall: when they tasted of the tree, their shame became manifest to them, and they began to sew together the leaves of the garden over their bodies. And their Lord called unto them:"Did i not forbid you that tree, and tell you that satan was an avowed enemy unto you?" They said:" Our Lord! We have wronged our own souls: if Thou forgive us not and bestow not upon us thy mercy, we shall certainly be lost." Allah said:' Get ye down, with enmity between yourselves on earth will be your dweelling place and your means of livelihood,--for a time." He said:"therein shall ye live, and therein shall ye die; but from it shall ye be taken out (at last). (Al-Araf 7:20-25)

in Islam law a women is an independent, unique individual in her own right. She has the same responsibilities towards herself, towards Allah and towards other human beings as the male, and will be punished or rewarded in the Hereafter without discrimination toward her female gender.

my dearest hedaya ..
tahnk you for this valuable post .. I really like the way the lady answers tha questions . I just wanted to tell u that we are with you and we are waiting everyday for this post .. I will keep this reasearch with me later and I think every muslim should do so coz we are always faced with such questions and sicne we are not expetrs in religion we dont know what to say ..
ALLAH yiwafqish wi yihdeena jamee3an ..
may allah lead us always to teh right path ..

Civil Right:
There is no compulsion in religion according to the Qur'an:

Let there be no compulsion in religion: truth stands out clear from error: whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah hath grasped the most trustworthy hand-hold, that never breaks. And Allah heareth and knoweth all things. (Al-Baqarah 2:256)

The Christian or Jewish wife of a Muslim is allowed to stay in her religion after marriage to a Muslim, without interference. Muslim Women, on the other hand, are not allowed to marry non-Muslim men.

A Muslim Women is not required to change her family name to her husband's upon marriage. She is always known by her father's name, as a mark of her own identity. In chossing a marriage partner, her consent to accept or reject any prospective suitor for marriage must be respected. A Muslim Women has the right seek divorce, if necessary, as well.

Q. Does a Muslim Women have the right to go outside of her home?

Muslim women are not forbidden from going out in the community, working, or visiting relatives and female friends, if there is no objection from their guardian and they behave and speak according to Islam guidelines and, if necessary, escorted by a close male relative. However, a women's home should be the main base that the works from. Allah instructed the wives of the Prophet (pace be upon him):

O consorts of the Prophet! ye are not like any of the (other) women: if ye do fear (Allah), be not too complaisant of speech. lest one in whose heart is a disease should be moved with desire: but speak ye a speech (that is) jsut. And stay quietly in your houses. And make not a dazzling display, like that of former times of ignorance: and establish regular prayer, and give regular charity; and obey Allah and his apostle. And Allah only wishes to remove all abomination from you, ye members of the family, and to make you pure and spotless. (Al-Ahzab 33:32-33)

Q. Is a women in Islam allowed to get an education?

In the words of the Prophet Muhammed (Peace be upon him):
“ To seek knowledge is obligatory on every Muslim” (3) (Muslim here meaning male and female Muslims, as women are the twin halves of men).

A women in Islam has the right to knowledge and education. Allah encourages women to read and keep up the learning process. He also bestows His mercy upon all who seek knowledge, and gives them high status:

…Are those equal, those who know and those who do not know? (Al-Zumar 39:9)

…..Allah will raise up to (suitable) ranks (and degrees). Those of you who believe and who have been granted knowledge. And Allah is well acquainted with all ye do. (Al-Mujadilah

To be continued

Q. We don’t see as many Muslim women pursuing career outside their homes like Western women do. Why?

The Right to seek Employment

If you take a look at many societies today, a women is only valued and considered important if she performs the function of a man, (while at the same time displaying her immense responsibility of bearing and rearing children, you have to admit that they may still be at par with men in nearly every area of life. The result is the present-day confusion concerning sex role differentiation, resulting in very large numbers of divorces and emotionally distraught children.

In Islam, however, the value and importance of women in society and the true measure o their success as human beings, is measured with completely different criteria: their fear of Allah and obedience to Him, and fulfillment of the duties He has entrusted them with, particularly that of bearing, rearing and teaching children.

Nevertheless, Islam is a practical religion, and responds to human needs and life situations. Many women need, or wish, to work for various reasons. For example, they may possess a needed skill, such as a teacher or a doctor.

While Islam does not prohibit women working outside the home, it does stipulate that the following restriction be followed to safeguard the dignity and honor of women and the purity and stability of the society, (the conduct of women, after all, is the “backbone” of any society):

1.Outside employment should not come before, or seriously interfere with her responsibilities as wife and mother.


2.Her work should not be a source of friction within the family, and the husband’s consent is required in order to eliminate later disagreement. If she is not married, she must have her guardian’s consent.

3.Her appearance, manner and tone of speech and overall behavior should follow Islamic guidelines. These include: restraining her glances in relation to any men near the work place, wearing correct Islamic dress, avoiding free or inviting talk or laughter with men, not walking in a provocative manner, and not using make-up or perfume in public.

4.Her job should not be one which causes moral corruption in society, or involve any prohibited trade or activity, affect her own religion, morals, dignity and good behavior, or subject her to temptations.

5.Her job should not be which forces her to mix and associate with men.

6.A women should try to seek employment in positions which require a women’s special skills, or with relate to the needs of women and children, such as teaching, nursing other women, midwifery, medicine with specializations like pediatrics or obstetrics-gynecology.

To be continued.

well done sister.

Q. And when a Muslim women goes out in public, does she have to dress a certain way?
Yes, but for a Muslim women, her modest dress is an expression of a universal sisterhood. An Islamic dress also liberates the Muslim women, and she is then automatically respected for her mind instead of her body. Simply put, she retains her dignity! It is like saying: I am a respectful woman, I am not for every man to look at, touch, or speak to. I am protected, will become black and dirty.

A women’s modest dress protects society from adultery and other forms of illegal sexual relations that lead up to the break up of families and corruption of society.

The Right to be Respected for Her Mind and Person Muslim Woman’s dress Requirement.

O prophet! Tell thy wives and daughters, and the believing women, that they should cast their outer garments over their persons (when out of doors): That is most convenient, that they should be known (as Such) and not molested. And Allah is oft-forgiving, most merciful. (Al-Ahzab 33:59)

Islam has great respect for the chastity of women. From the time that she reaches puberty, a Muslim women is required to cover her entire body from head to foot, whenever she appears in public, or whenever she might be seen by other than her “maharem” (closet male relatives).

There is no blame (on these ladies if they appear) before their fathers or their sons, their brothers, or their brothers; sons, or their sister’s sons. Or their women, or the (slaves) whom their right hands possess. And, (ladies), after Allah; for Allah is witness to all things. (Al-Ahzab 33:55)

Losseness:
The dress must be loose enough so as not to describe the shape of a women’s body. A highly desirable way of concealing the shape of a woman’s figure is to wear a cloak over the garment.

Thickness:
The dress should be thick enough so as not show the color of the skin it covers, or the shape of the body which it is supposed to hide.

Overall Appearance:
The dress should not be such that it attracts men’s attention to the woman’s beauty with its design, flashiness of fabric or style.

In addition, Muslims should have their distinct personality and should differentiate their practices and appearances from non-Muslims.

The dress should not be similar to what is known as male dress or apparel.

“ Allah’s Messenger cursed the man who put on women’s clothes and the woman who put on men’s clothes”.

It should not be a dress f fame, pride and vanity. Such fame may be sought by wearing excessively fancy dress as a status symbol, or an excessively ragged dress to gain others’ admiration of one’s selflessness. Both motives are improper by Islamic standards.

And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their husbands’ fathers, their sons, or their women, or the slaves whom their right hands possess, or male servants free of sexual desires, or small children who have no carnal knowledge of women; or that they should not strike their feet in order to draw attention to their hidded ornaments. And O ye believers! Thus ye all together towards Allah in repentence, that ye may be successful (Al-Nur 24:31)

It is also clearly forbidden for a Muslim women to use perfume when she goes out of her home—even if she is going to the mosque. “The women who perfumes herself and passes through a gathering is an adulteress. (6)

To Be Continued

Q. Do Muslim men also have a dress code?

It should be noted that the basic requirements of a Muslim women’s dress apply as well to a Muslim man’s dress, with the difference being mainly in degree. While a women must cover her whole body, the man must cover the area between the navel and the knees, following the same requirements foe looseness, thickness and the avoidance of “showing off” as his sisters in Islam must do Men’s clothing must also not be wear silk or gold and neither are they allowed to wear clothes that are similar to women’s.

Say to the believing men that should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that will make for greater purity for them: and Allah is well-acquainted with all that they do. (Al-Nur 24:30)

The Right to Go to the Mosque

Q. I heard women are not allowed to go to the mosque. Is that true?

The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, “If some one’s wife asks his permission to go to the mosque, he should not deny it to her.”(7)

Again, women should be covered Islamically, according to what we have mentioned under the section of Muslim Woman’s Dress.

At the same time, a woman’s prayer in her home is better, from the standpoint of her household duties and duties as a mother. Also it is better in the sense that it prevents unnecessary mixing with men. The prophet (peace be upon him), also stated on another occasion: “ But their homes are better for them”(8)

Q. The ERA (Equal Rights Amendment) in the USA gave rights to American Women. Does Islam give men and women equal rights?

In reality, and in Islam, the rights and responsibilities of a woman are equal to those of a man, but they are not necessarily identical with them. Equality and sameness are two very different things. I think you’ll agree that, for one thing, women and men are physically very different from one another, although they are equal to each other important ways.

The attitude of Qur’an shows clearly that woman is at least as important to social, family and human life as man himself, and that she is not inferior to him or an object of lust.

In the west, women may be doing the same job that men do, but their wages are often less. The rights of Western women in modern times were not granted voluntarily, or out of kindness to the female. The modern Western woman reached her present position by force, and not through natural processes or mutual consent or Divine teachings. She had to force her away, and various circumstances aided her. Shortage of manpower during wars, pressure of economic needs and requirement of industry forced woman to leave their homes to work, struggling for their livelihood, to appear equal to men. Whether all women are sincerely pleased with these circumstances, and whether they are happy and satisfied with the results, is a different matter. But the fact remains that whatever rights modern Western women have, they fall short of those of her Muslim counterpart! Islam has given women what suits her female nature. It gives her full security and protects her against becoming what Western modern women themselves complain against: a “mere sex object”.

To Be Continued.

Q. So what is Islam’s view of women being viewed as “ sex objects”?

Sex and Society

The subject of a Muslim women’s relations with men other than her husband and her close relatives is considerably different in practices and customs over what one sees today in the West.

In the West, sexual relations outside marriage may still generally be considered a sin, or at least vaguely undesirable, but in practice no steps are taken to reduce the extremely high incidence of pre-marital and extra-marital sexual relations, in spite of illegitimate children and venereal diseases, particularly AIDS. On the contrary, films, television and certain sections of the press actually encourage such behavior as being normal! Contraception or abortion are common means of conveniently getting rid of any undesirable side effects.

In contrast with this unrestrained situation, Islam recommends a number of specific measures to reduce the temptations towards sex before or outside marriage.

First of all, the Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) advised all people to get married if they can, in order for their natural desires to have a legitimate and legal fulfillment.

“ We were with the Prophet (peace be upon him) while we were young and had no wealth whatever. Allah’s Apostle (peace be upon him) said, O’ young people! Whoever among you can marry, should marry, because it helps him lower his gaze and guard his modesty. (Meaning: his private parts from committing illegal sexual intercourse, etc.) and whoever is not able to marry should fast, as fasting is a protection (from committing fornication or adultery).” (9)

Secondly, due to the permission for limited polygamy, there is no need for there to be a surplus of unattached women in society.
Thirdly, Women are directed by the Qur’an to drees modestly in public, so as not to attract men.

Fourthly, the Muslim way of life forbids the boyfriend/girlfriend system, mixed parties, dancing between men and women, taking alcohol or drugs, and other related Western ways of life which are well-known and provide situations from which forbidden sexual relations develop.

Social entertainment is Islam is generally either within the family circle or close friends and relatives, where men and women are in separate groups.

Fifthly, adultery and pre-marital sex are considered by Islamic law not only as sins but as crimes, which are punishable under law and apply equally to men and women. The punishments are meant to serve as deterrents for the individual and society.

From the point of view of Islam, not only the women, but also the man possesses chastity. A man who perpetuates rape, fornication or adultery spoils not only the chasity of the women, but his own, as well.

Nor come nigh to adultery: for it is a indecent (deed), and an evil way. (Al-Isra 17:32)

The women and the man guilty of illegal sexual intercourse, - flog each of them with a hundred stripes: Let not compassion move you in their case, in a matter prescribed by Allah, if ye believe in Allah and the last day: And let a party of the believers witness their punishment. (Al-Nur 24:2) (This punishment is for as unmarried person guilty of the above crime, but if a married couple commit it, the punishment is to stone them to death according to Allah’s law.)

“Narrated Ash-Shaibani: I asked Abdullah bin Abi, ‘Aufa about the “Rajam” (i.e. stoning somebody to death for committing illegal sexual intercourse). He replied, “The prophet (peace be upon him) carried out the penalty of “Rajam”.(10)

If these punishments seem harsh to the Westerner, then consider this: It is virtually impossible for human being to respond to their inner voices—the voices of their true, God-given natures—when they allow themselves to be crippled by animal passions. Allah wants only what is best for us, and He has elevated us above animals.

To Be Continued.

Q. What is considered a Muslim woman’s primary role in life?

From the perspective of Islamic law, a woman’s role is that of wife and mother. All other considerations are secondary.

Q. If men and women unrelated to each other are not allowed to mix socially, then obviously Islam does not allow dating. How do young people go about getting engaged for marriage, and are they allowed to get to know each other before marriage?

Searching for a wife

When a Muslim Man decides to get married, he searches for a good wife who will also be a good mother to his future children by her. In Islam, the very first quality a man should look for in a wife is not her beauty, her wealth or family name, but how much she fears Allah and obeys his commandments. Is she a pious Muslimah?
In the words of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):

“Women may be married for four reasons: for their property, their rank, their beauty, and their religion: so get the one who is religious and prosper.” (11)

By asking family and friends to guide him to such a woman by word of mouth, he may then visit her family. At the same time, if a woman’s father or guardian sees an eligible man whom he thinks is a suitable person for his daughter, he is allowed to ask that particular man if he would consider marrying his daughter.

Before a yes or no answer is decided upon by the woman, she should try to find out about her prospective suitor’s background, as regards piety, honesty, character, and whatever else might concern them as a future couple together. This can be done by having her family speak with the man himself, and by having them ask others about his background. The Prophet Muhammed ( pace be upon him) said:

“ When a man comes to you (seeking marriage) in whom you are satisfied with his character and religion, let him marry.” (12)

Engagement:

If they eventually agree and think they might be suited to one another and are equally fearful and obedient to Allah, it is then the right of the man to see and look at the woman he plans to marry. The Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) has said:

“Have a look at her. It will be helpful in promoting love and pleasantness between you.” (13)

Marriage Contract:

At this point, if, after seeing one another the man and woman are still interested in each other, a fixed date is set for the signing of the marriage contract, with witnesses. In addition, a certain amount of money or other items are given to the bride as a gift from the bridegroom as agreed upon between the couple and their families.

“When a man marries, he has fulfilled half of his religion..” (14) A saying of the Prophet Muhammad )pace be upon him).

The Rights and Obligations of the Wife

Maintenance:

Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has given the one more (strength) than the other, and because they support them from their means, Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient, and guard in (the husband’s) absence what Allah would have them guard…(Al-Nisa 4:34)

Women have been entrusted by Allah with the task of providing a peaceful, comfortable home environment for the breadwinner who works for their provisions outside the home all day long.

It is one of the extraordinary beauties of Islam that by relegating the male to the position of protector and provider, it frees the woman, who is burdened with the long cycle of bearing, giving birth to, nursing and raising children, from having to assume the extra burden of her own and her children’s support, which is unjust and a tremendous hardship.

While a woman must obey her husband, as long as he does not ask anything forbidden of her, and guard his possessions while he is away from the house, and handle his money as he wishes, she must also be faithful, trustworthy and honest.

A wife is regarded as a source of love, peace and compassion, as stated in the Qur’an:

And among His signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that ye may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts): verily in that are signs for those who reflect. (Al-Rum 30:21)

To Be Continued

As a wife, a woman is given various material and non-material rights under Islamic law:

The right to be paid the agreed-upon dowry amount by her husband:

In Islam the man presents his wife with a dowry they have mutually agreed upon, at the time of marriage. The amount varies according to his means and generosity, and his wife has the right to spend, save or remit any part of it.

And give the women (on marriage) their dower as an obligation. (Al-Nisa 4:4)

Good treatment, consideration and companionship:

Allah instructs men that they must be compassionate and kind to their wives:…They (wives) are your garments and you (husbands) are their garments..(Al-Baqarah 2:187) (meaning that a wife and a husband are meant for mutual support, mutual comfort, and mutual protection of each other.)

The Prophet Muhammad (pace be upon him) also emphasized the importance of this compassionate treatment:

“ I command you to treat women kindly. Woman has been created from a rib (the rib is crooked), and the most crooked part of the rib is in the upper region. If you try to make it straight you will break it, and if you leave it as it is, it will remain curved. So treat women kindly.”(15)

“The best of you are those who are best to the women”(16)

The best husband is one who provides her with true leadership without harshness, or laxness, and who does not misuse his authority and strength. Even if the behavior of a wife should become hard to live with (for she may not always be in strong health and of cheery disposition), the man is asked to be patient and kind to her:

Nor should ye treat them harshness, that ye may take away part of the dower ye have given them, --except where they have been guilty of open lewdness; on the country live with them on a footing of kindness and equity. If ye take a dislike to them it may be that ye dislike a thing, and Allah brings about through it a great deal of good (Al-Nisa 4:19)

A wife has the right to her husband’s attention, companionship and time. The husband should try to please and make her happy, taking into consideration her needs, wishes, likes and dislikes, and making time for relaxation and recreation together.

The right to have her honor defended:

The husband is his wife’s guardian and protector against anyone who tries to injure or degrade her in any way. At the same time, although the husband should not be concerned with his wife’s honor and dignity, he should not be unduly jealous or suspicious of her by watching or controlling her movements, by making big issues out of small matters, or by treating his wife as anything except a responsible, God-fearing individual, as long as she deserves it.

The right to be safe from abuse or injury by her husband:

Islam forbids a man to injure his wife emotionally or physically. He is prohibited from swearing at or cursing her, insulting her or calling her names, or from doing anything which harms her physically, especially with regards to her face.

The right to adequate sexual relations:

Since the purpose of marriage is to be a mutual source of comfort, peace, and enjoyment for each other, like a garment that protects and covers, the sexual aspect of marriage is an extension of this. The husband is asked to be gentle, considerate and loving with his wife, and try to satisfy her needs, The wife must reserve herself exclusively for her husband, and make efforts to be attractive, as well as making herself available to him whenever he is in need of her. This latter obligation also applies to the husband. In Islam, any sexual relations are reserved EXCLUSIVELY for the confines of marriage. Both husband and wife are also obligated to honor the privacy of the intimate relations between them, and should not speak of them to anyone.

“Verily among the worst people before Allah on the Day of Judgement is a man who approaches his wife sexually and she responds and then he spreads her secrets”.(17)

The right to restrict her husband from marrying any other woman while she is his wife:

In Islam, if the husband agrees at the time of marriage to include this condition in the contract, then he becomes obligated to abide by it. At the same time, he must give her her right of annulment if he changes his mind and marries another wife.

To Be Continued

Beneficial information but can you make them shorter if possible.

Thanks

HYGIENE

While Still on the subject of marriage, a frank discussion of personal hygiene is necessary, particularly since Muslims enjoy the highest standard of personal hygiene of all peoples in the world.

In Islam, cleanliness and purification are not only requirements for the performance of worship, or when embracing Islam, but are part of a Muslim’s very faith.

For Allah loves those who turn to him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean. (Al-Baqarah 2:222)

Cleanliness in Islam is of three kinds:

1. Purification from impurity (i.e. to attain purity or cleanliness, by taking a bath or performing ablution in states in which a bath or ablution is necessary or desirable according to Islamic Law.)
2. To cleanse one’s body, dress or place from an impurity of filth.
3. To remove the dirt or grime that collects in various parts of the body, such as cleaning the teeth and nostrile, the trimming of nails and the removing of armpit and public hair, We will concern ourselves here with the first kind of cleanliness: a complete bath and simple Ablution.

A complete bath (known in Arabic as “ Al-Ghusl”.

Where all parts of the body are thoroughly washed, is required of Muslims after marital intercourse, after a nocturnal emission (wet dream), after child-birth and the post 40-days flow of blood, and final yellowish discharge has completely stopped, and each month after the menstrual flow of blood and final yellowish discharge has stopped.

A simple ablution (known in Arabic as Al-Wudhu).

Is necessary before prayer in the following cases:

a. After urinating or defecating
b. If one breaks wind
c. If one falls asleep lying down
d. If one loses consciousness
e. If one directly touches the genitals
f. If one becomes excited, leading to a subsequent discharge

He above cases also nullify one’s ablution, requiring a fresh one.

O ye who believe! When ye prepare for prayer, wash your faces, and your hands (and arms) to the elbows; rub your heads (with water): and wash your feet to the ankles…(Al-Maidah 5:6)

To illustrate how far Muslims must maintain their high level of personal hygiene, the following points are specifically mentioned by the Prophet Muhammad (pace be upon him) on attending by the Prophet Muhammad (pace be upon him) on attending the call of nature:

“The right hand was used by Allah’s Messenger for his ablution and for taking food, and his left hand was used in the toilet and the like” (18)

“ When the Prophet (peace be upon him) wanted to relive himself, he used to go where no one could see him” (19)

“ Avoid the two acts which will incur the curse of Allah: relieving oneself where people walk or in the shade (where people sit)”. (20)

To Be Continued

The Prohibition of sex when she is menstruating:

It is forbidden for a Muslim man to have sexual intercourse with his wife when she is menstruating. The Qur’an is clear on this subject:

They ask thee concerning women’s course. Say: they are a hurt and a pollution; so keep away from women in their courses, and do not approach them until they are clean. (note: marital intimacies are allowed short of sexual intercourse) but when they have purified themselves, ye may approach them in any manner, time, or place ordained and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean.(Al-Baqarah 2:222)

The prohibition of sodomy:

Allah will not look at the man who commits sodomy with a man or a woman. (21)

It is forbidden for a Muslim man to enter his wife in her anus.

Your wives are as a tilth (planting ground) unto you; so approach your tilth when or how ye will; but do some good act for your douls beforehand; and fear Allah. And know that ye are to meet him (in the hereafter), and give (these) good tidings to those who believe. (Al-Baqarah 2:223)

What is understood from the above verse is that a “planting ground” can only refer to a place where something might grow. Therefore, what is meant here is the entry which produces children.

Other saying of the Prophet Muhammad (pace be upon him) on the subject:

“He is cursed who has anal intercourse (with his wife).” (22)

“whoever has sexual intercourse with a menstruating woman, or woman in her anus.. has disbelieved in that which was revealed to Muhammad (pace be upon him).” (23)

It can not be stressed too strongly that even animals do not satisfy their sexual urges in this unnatural way. Human being who are guilty of sodomy are, thus, even lower than animals.

Purification between two acts with one’s wife or wives:

In Islam, when a husband has had sexual intercourse with his wife in the legal manner, and then wishes to return another time, it is preferable that he first performs another ablution. Meaning: it is better if he does not commence sexual intercourse in an unclean physical state. In the words of the Prophet Muhammed (pace be upon him):

“ This way is purer, cleaner and better.”(24)

It is hoped that this brief survey of Islam’s high standards of personal hygiene requirements will make non-Muslims aware that practicing Muslims enjoy that strictest level of cleanliness of any religious people in the world.

Tidiness:

“(One day), as the Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him) visited me, he saw an uncouth person whose hair was disheveled. The Apostle of Allah (pace be upon him) remarked: “ Couldn’t he find anything with which to comb his hair?” on the same occasion, he saw remarked, “Couldn’t he find anything with which to wash his clothes?” (25)

To Be Continued

Q. These are the rights of a wife, but isn’t there something special about the position of mothers in Islam?

For mothers there is the highest esteem in Islam.

And we have enjoined on man (to be good) to his parents: in travail upon travail did his mother bear him, and in years twain was his weaning: (hear the command) “show gratitude to Me and to thy parents; to Me is (thy final) goal. (Luqman 31:14)

The Muslim mother has a great feeling of security about the type of care and consideration she can expect from her children when she reaches old age. Thankfulness to parents is linked with thankfulness to Allah, and good conduct begins at home with one’s closet relatives.

One of the Companions of the Prophet, jahimah, came to the Prophet (pace be upon him) and said: “O Allah’s Messenger, I want to fight in the Holy War and I want your advice. The Prophet (pace be upon him) asked: “ Do you have a mother?” Jahimah replied, “Yes.” And the Prophet (pace be upon him) said: “ Stay with her, for paradise is at her foot.” (26)

“ Verily, Allah forbade for you rudeness (disobedience) to mothers.”(27)

‘ A man came to Allah’s Apostle and said: O Apostle of Allah! Who is more entitled to be treated with the best companionship by me? The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied (three times): “Your mother.” The man then asked: “Then who?” The Prophet (pace be upon him)replied: “Then your father.”(28)

Parents also have the right of maintenance over their children, if they are needy or ask for maintenance. Even if the parents are wealthy it is favorable to provide for them. Allah’s Apostle said: “You and your possessions belong to your father.” (29)

Q Getting back to the subject of marriage in Islam, are there any rules about who a man or woman can or can not marry?

Yes, the Qur’an is specific on this subject:

Prohibited to you (for marriage) are:-- your mothers, daughters, sisters, father’s sisters, mother’s sisters, brother’s daughters, sister’s daughters, foster-mothers (i.e. a woman who breast-fed you for at least five complete feeding in your infancy), foster sisters (i.e. two infants who are not siblings, but were breast-fed by the same woman), your wives’ mothers, your step-daughters under your guardianship, born of your wives to whom ye have gone in –(i.e. consummated marriage with) no prohibition if ye have not gone in—(i.e.consummated marriage with) no prohibition if ye have not gone in (those who have been) wives of your sons proceeding from your loins. And two sisters in wedlock at one and the same time, except for what is past, for Allah is Oft-Fforgiving, Most Merciful, -- also (prohibited are) women already married, except those whom your right hands possess. ( for an explanation of the term “whom your right hands possess”, please refer to the meaning of the Qur’an by Yusuf Ali,) thus hath Allah ordained (prohibitions) against you: except for these, all others are lawful, provided ye seek (them in marriage) with gifts from your property—desiring chastity, not lust..(Al-Nisa 4:23-24)

Q. If women are so well taken care of in Islam, as you mentioned earlier, then does that mean they are not allowed to manage money on their own?

The right to conduct independent ownership and to conduct legal transactions.

…To men is allotted what they earn, and to women what they earn..(Al-Nisa 4:32)

You may be surprised to learn that is no restriction on a woman’s owning and managing or real estate or conducting any other kind of legal transactions related to her property, such as buying, selling, mortgaging, leasing, borrowing or lending, donating, acting as a trustee, signing contracts and legal documents, and establishing a business or company. These rights apply to all her properties, whether acquired before or after marriage. The only conditions are that she be of age and mentally capable of managing them, either by herself or by submitting with trust to a close relative or her husband.

Q. But are Muslim women allowed to inherit?

In the words of Allah: From what is left by parents and those nearest related there is a share for men and a share for women, whether the property be small or large, -- a determinate share. (Al-Nisa 4:7)

This determinate share of inheritance allotted to a daughter is one-half that of a son. The reason is that a man is fully responsible for providing for the needs of his wife, children and needy relatives, especially female relatives, and for the running of the household.

Women are exempt from such a financial responsibility and, at the same time, are allowed full control over all aspects of their property, without being required to spend any of it on their maintenance, their families or households 9unless they wish to). With this understood, it is clear then that Islam is fair and correctly balances financial rights with responsibilities.

To Be Continued.