The Status and Value of Women in Islam

<p>Islam is a religion that greatly values women and safeguards their rights. In a society where female infants were buried alive during the Age of Ignorance, Islam elevated women to an honorable position. Almighty Allah states in Surah An-Nisa: "O mankind! Be mindful of your Lord, Who created you from a single soul, and from it created its mate." <br/> <br/>The status of motherhood is one of the highest ranks in Islam. When the Prophet was asked "Who among people is most deserving of my good treatment?" he said "Your mother" three times, and then said "Your father" the fourth time. The hadith "Paradise lies beneath the feet of mothers" demonstrates the unique value of motherhood in Islam. <br/> <br/>Islam granted women the right to own property, the right to inheritance, the right to education, and the right to manage their own earnings. These rights were given in the seventh century, while women in Europe did not attain such rights until centuries later. Khadijah was a successful businesswoman, and Aisha was one of the greatest narrators of Islamic sciences. <br/> <br/>Throughout Islamic history, many female scholars, poets, and leaders emerged. Fatima al-Fihri founded one of the oldest universities in the world. Every Muslim society should respect the education, rights, and dignity of women.</p>