THE REVIVAL OF WOMEN’S STATUS IN ISLAM: BEYOND CULTURAL DISTORTIONS

Abstract

The status of women in Islam has long been subject to misinterpretation, often distorted by cultural traditions and patriarchal norms rather than Islamic teachings themselves. This paper explores the original rights and dignified status Islam granted women—such as the right to education, inheritance, ownership, consent in marriage, and participation in public life—contrasting these with the restrictive practices that emerged later due to socio-cultural influences. Through a historical and textual analysis of the Qur’an and Hadith, the study reveals a consistent emphasis on justice, equality, and human dignity. The paper also examines the ways in which Islamic reformers and scholars are reclaiming women's roles in society by returning to authentic sources. It argues that the revival of women’s status in Islam is not a modern invention but a restoration of foundational principles, offering a more inclusive and empowering understanding of Islamic gender ethics.