Amidst a world of constant change and diverse stories, understanding what it means to be a Muslim woman, a Muslimah, takes us on a meaningful journey.
In this blog, we uncover the different aspects of our identity as Muslimah, delving into the roles, values and aspirations that define the lives of Muslim women, in the Quran and throughout history, and how they continue to resonate with us today.
The Strength of Our Spiritual Identity as Muslimah
The Quran beautifully speaks of the equal spiritual status of all believers. This verse, in particular, emphasises how the commitment to faith and good deeds of each individual, man or woman, is valued in the eyes of Allah (SWT).
“Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women, the believing men and believing women, the obedient men and obedient women, the truthful men and truthful women, the patient men and patient women, the humble men and humble women, the charitable men and charitable women, the fasting men and fasting women, the men who guard their private parts and the women who do so, and the men who remember Allah often and the women who do so – for them Allah has prepared forgiveness and a great reward.” (Al-Ahzab, 33:35)
Further reinforcing this profound concept, is this verse in Surah Al-Hujurat, which states:
“Surely the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous among you. Allah is truly All-Knowing, All-Aware.” (Al-Hujurat, 49:13)
These verses, among several others in the Quran, stand as a heartfelt reminder that our devotion and virtue, regardless of our gender, are cherished by Allah (SWT) and hold the true measure of our worth in His eyes.
Extraordinary Women Mentioned in the Quran
“Many men reached perfection but none among the women reached perfection except Mary, the daughter of ‘ `Imran, and Asiya, Pharoah’s wife.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
In the Quran are stories of remarkable women that impart profound lessons that continue to resonate with us through time. Among them, Maryam (AS) and Asiya (AS) stand as shining beacons of faith, resilience and unwavering devotion as believing women.
The story of Maryam (AS), the mother of Isa (AS), is a powerful testament to unwavering faith amid challenges. Chosen by Allah (SWT) to bear a son miraculously, Maryam (AS) embraced her role with courage, as she had Tawakkul (trust in His divine plan), even as she faced the harsh judgments of her community. She truly serves as an exemplar of patience and perseverance, showcasing how a deep connection with our Creator can protect us from the unwarranted opinions and criticisms of the world.
Likewise, the story of Asiya (AS), the wife of Pharaoh and foster mother of Musa (AS), is another awe-inspiring narrative of courage and faith. In the heart of an oppressive regime, her unshakable belief in Allah (SWT) radiates as a symbol of unwavering determination in the face of adversity. Despite having all the wealth and luxuries she could ask for as the Pharoah’s wife, she was courageous in her defiance of Pharaoh’s tyrannical orders, shielding and adopting Musa (AS) and keeping her heart firm in her faith in Allah (SWT).
Through the stories of Maryam (AS) and Asiya (AS), the Quran showcases the strength, wisdom and unwavering devotion a Muslimah can possess. These narratives transcend time and culture, offering valuable insights for Muslim women and men across generations as their legacies continue to inspire us to this day.
The Shining Legacy of the Sahabiyat
The Sahabiyat, the esteemed female companions of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), have left an unforgettable mark on Islamic history.
Among these remarkable women, the Prophet’s (ﷺ) wives, the mothers of believers (umm al mu’minin), illustrate the diverse roles Muslim women can embody. Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, the pioneer and earliest supporter of Islam, stood as a pillar of unwavering devotion during the faith’s infancy. Her sacrifices and steadfast belief provided crucial support to the Prophet (ﷺ) in the face of adversity. Sawda bint Zam’a, another of the Prophet’s wives, also embraced Islam during its developing stages, displaying her steadfastness in faith even in challenging circumstances.
Aisha bint Abi Bakr, renowned for her profound scholarship, played a pivotal role in transmitting the Hadith of the Prophet (ﷺ), enriching our understanding of Islamic teachings. Her intellectual contributions and dedication to preserving the Prophet’s words serve as an enduring legacy of women’s scholarly capabilities. Likewise, Umm Salama, through her wisdom and resilience during the tumultuous period of the Hijra, showcases the strength of character and determination that characterised the Sahabiyat.
The Prophet’s daughters, particularly Fatimah az-Zahra, stand as paragons of virtue and piety. Her unwavering devotion to her father and her profound spirituality has made her a source of inspiration for women seeking a deep connection with their faith. Likewise, the resilience and loyalty exhibited by Ruqayyah and Umm Kulthum, even in the face of adversity, reflect the unwavering commitment of women to their principles and beliefs.
Muslim women were also present on the battlefield during the time of the Prophet (ﷺ), bravely defending Islam and their people. The fearlessness of Nusayba bint Ka’b in protecting the Prophet (ﷺ) during the Battle of Uhud is a testament to the courage and loyalty of the Sahabiyat. Likewise, Sumayya bint Khayyat’s unwavering faith, which persisted even unto martyrdom, exemplifies the profound commitment and spiritual strength of these women to their faith.
These remarkable women, through their faith, knowledge, courage, and unwavering support, continue to inspire and empower Muslim women across generations, embodying the essence of faith and leaving an enduring legacy.
Inspiring Muslim Women Scholars Throughout History
In the years following the Hijra, remarkable Muslim women emerged as trailblazers in scholarship and devotion. ‘Amra bint Abdur Rahman, a student of Aisha (AS), demonstrated her expertise by challenging an unjust ruling and successfully rectifying it. In the century after her, Nafisa al-Tahira exemplified piety and learning in Egypt, even influencing scholars like Imam Shafi’i.
Across the Islamic world, more illuminary Muslim women of knowledge also followed centuries after. Fatima al-Fihri established the University of al-Qarawiyyin in Morocco, a testament to her dedication and contribution to education. Karima bint Ahmad al Marwaziyya, a renowned hadith scholar known as the “Shaykha of Mecca.” And Fatima bint Sa’d al Khair, a globetrotting seeker of knowledge who settled in Damascus and Cairo, produced and inspired generations of students.
These women, from various corners of the Islamic world, each played a vital role in shaping scholarship, spirituality and education, leaving an enduring mark on the history of Islam.
So what does it mean to be a Muslimah? Across generations, numerous women have dedicated their lives to religion, scholarship, service and education. These remarkable individuals did not merely identify themselves as women but as devoted servants of Allah (SWT) and inheritors of the Prophet’s message.
Drawing inspiration from the Qur’an and the rich tapestry of history, where women’s contributions have been evident in every era and region, provides a wellspring of hope and resilience. In the present day, Muslim women are called to embrace this legacy, casting a shadow of commitment, courage and service over their communities and echoing the enduring spirit that defines their heritage.
