عہد نبوی ﷺو خلافت راشدہ میں خواتین کے حقوق اور مسلم خواتین کے کردار کا خصوصی مطالعہ

A SPECIAL STUDY OF WOMEN'S RIGHTS AND THE ROLE OF MUSLIM WOMEN DURING THE ERA OF THE PROPHET MUHAMMADﷺ AND THE RIGHTLY GUIDED CALIPHATE

Abstract

Before the advent of Islam, women in Arab society were deprived of basic human rights and treated as inferior beings. They were denied inheritance, buried alive at birth, and viewed merely as objects of use. The arrival of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ brought a divine revolution that restored women's dignity and rights, marking a historical shift in their status. Women were given the right to inherit, own property, seek education, and participate in society with honor and independence.

Islam introduced a framework in which women were spiritually and socially equal to men. The Prophet ﷺ not only granted rights to women but also entrusted them with responsibilities in education, social services, and public affairs. Many women became scholars and role models. Among them, Hazrat Aisha (RA) stands out as one of the greatest scholars in Islamic history, known for her deep understanding of fiqh, hadith, and medicine. Other women like Hafsa (RA) and Umm Salama (RA) also transmitted knowledge and played significant roles in shaping Islamic thought.

This legacy continued during the Khilafat-e-Rashida. Women voiced their opinions in political and religious matters, and their wisdom was acknowledged in public settings. They were active participants in the development of the early Muslim society. Islamic teachings during this period ensured that women were not only protected but empowered as individuals with rights, intellect, and influence. This stands in contrast to later cultural practices that veiled their status. Islam, as practiced in its early authentic form, laid the foundation for gender justice and dignity.