Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings on human equality and women’s rights, as outlined in the Quran and Hadith, challenged deeply ingrained social hierarchies and granted women unprecedented rights and respect, laying the foundation for a more inclusive society.

The rise of Islam, under the leadership of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), brought about profound social changes in 7th-century Arabia and beyond. Through his exemplary character, teachings, and personal conduct, the Prophet championed the cause of equality and provided rights to marginalized groups, especially women, at a time when injustice and oppression were prevalent not only in Arabia but across the world. His teachings of fairness and equality laid the groundwork for a more inclusive society and continue to influence and inspire people to this day.

In pre-Islamic Arabian society, life was particularly harsh, especially for women. They were treated as property and denied basic human rights such as inheritance, education, or the right to live with dignity. Practices like female infanticide were widespread, and women were often sold into slavery or seen as commodities. A person’s status was defined by their wealth and tribal connections, which resulted in the marginalization of the weak and widespread injustice.

In this climate of inequity, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) brought a remarkable shift in how human beings, especially women, were treated. One of his earliest and most profound contributions was the declaration of human equality before God, regardless of gender, race, or social standing. The Quran emphasized this principle of equality:

“O mankind, We created you from a single soul, male and female, and made you into nations and tribes, so that you may know one another. Truly, the most honoured of you in the sight of God is the most righteous of you.” (Quran 49:13)

Through this teaching, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) challenged deeply ingrained social hierarchies and called for a society where individuals were judged by their character and moral integrity, rather than by race or tribal affiliations. This revolutionary concept was particularly powerful in a society where lineage determined a person’s value.

Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) approach to women’s rights was equally transformative. He advocated for their dignity, respect, and empowerment across social, economic, and spiritual realms. The Quran, through his teachings, granted women rights that were unprecedented for the time.

One of the Prophet’s most significant reforms was his condemnation of female infanticide, a common practice in pre-Islamic Arabia where daughters were viewed as burdens. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) strongly denounced this practice, emphasizing the inherent value of every human life, irrespective of gender. He also promoted kindness and respect toward daughters, famously stating, “Whoever has two daughters and treats them well will be with me in Paradise.” (Hadith)

In an era where women were viewed as property, Islam granted them rights to own, inherit, and manage their wealth. The Prophet ensured that women had a rightful share in inheritance, which was groundbreaking for the time:

“For men is a share of what the parents and close relatives leave, and for women is a share of what the parents and close relatives leave, be it little or much—a determined share.” (Quran 4:7)

The Prophet’s own wife, Khadijah (RA), was a successful businesswoman, and he fully supported her in her endeavors, demonstrating how women could be financially independent and respected for their contributions.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also stressed the importance of education for both men and women. He declared, “Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim.” This was a universal command that applied equally to both genders. His encouragement for women’s education was reflected in the participation of women in intellectual and scholarly pursuits during his time, with his wife Aisha (RA) becoming a respected source of knowledge for many companions and future generations.

The Prophet redefined marriage, granting women rights within the marital relationship. Before Islam, women had little say in marriage and were often treated as objects of transaction. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of mutual consent in marriage and gave women the right to accept or reject a proposal. He also stressed kindness and respect within the marriage, famously stating:

“The best of you are those who are best to their wives.” (Hadith)

Moreover, he established fair treatment in divorce, ensuring that women were not left destitute or wronged after separation. His inclusive approach extended to political and social arenas as well. Women were active participants in public life, and their opinions were valued. For example, during the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, it was Umm Salama (RA) who advised the Prophet on a crucial diplomatic matter.

Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings on human equality and women’s rights remain relevant today. His reforms were not merely a response to the conditions of 7th-century Arabia but were meant to be a universal and timeless framework for justice and equality. His deep compassion for the marginalized and his treatment of all people, particularly women, with dignity and respect, serve as a model for humanity.

In his final sermon during the Hajj, he summarized his vision for an equal society: “O people, your Lord is One. All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have any superiority over an Arab; a white has no superiority over a black, nor does a black have any superiority over a white; none have superiority over another except by piety and good action.”

Through his actions, teachings, and reforms, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) became a beacon of hope for the oppressed and a symbol of justice for all. His enduring legacy of human equality and women’s rights remains as inspiring today as it was over fourteen centuries ago.

The writer is a columnist and academician

By Rayees Masroor

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Rayees Masroor