Life and Teachings of the Prophet Muhammad
5. The Status of Woman in Islam
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“It is evident from the Hadith and
athar
(the sayings
and deeds of the Prophet’s companions) that the face
and hands are exempt, because it is not possible to
keep them covered while performing the various chores
of daily life and even religious rites. If they are ordered
to be strictly covered, it will create great difficulties for
women in carrying out their jobs. The theologians have
considered the feet also to be exempted parts.”
This exemption of face, hands and feet, derived from verse 31
of chapter 24 is extremely important. This shows that Islam does
not intend to stop women from going out to receive education or
to work but rather desires them to observe the Islamic culture
known as
Hijab
.
Hijab
requires a dress, which properly covers the
body, for she is obliged to observe the rules of modesty.
Another important matter concerning women is education. A
study of the life of the Prophet of Islam tells us that education is as
essential for women as it is for men. The actual goal of education
from the Islamic point of view is to make him or her an aware
person. And without doubt it is only aware men and women who
can conduct the practical matters of life smoothly.
We find an example in this connection in the life of the Prophet
of Islam in relation to his wife Aishah. There are such traditions as
tell us that the Prophet’s conversations with Aishah were aimed at
educating her. Aishah says that when the Prophet of Islam would
get up at night after a few hours to sleep, in that peaceful
