WOMAN IN THE
QURAN

The teachings of the Quran concerning human success apply equally to both men and women. Although many verses are expressed in the masculine form, seemingly addressing men, this is primarily a matter of linguistic convention and style. In essence, Quranic guidance is relevant to both genders, according to their respective circumstances. Even when a command is grammatically directed to men, it is generally understood, in a broader sense, to include both men and women.

For example, the Quran states: “Can he who was dead, to whom We gave life, and a light whereby he could walk among people be like him who is in utter darkness from which he can never emerge? Thus the deeds of those who deny the truth have been made fair-seeming to them.” (Quran, 6:122)

There are numerous verses in the Quran that clearly set forth essential beliefs and prescribed actions. Although many of these verses appear in the masculine form, they are equally applicable to women. However, in this chapter, we will specifically refer to those Quranic verses that are expressed in the feminine form, where the grammatical address is directly to women.

The Quran mentions women repeatedly from different perspectives: sometimes as individuals, sometimes as members of the collective human society; sometimes in relation to their biological aspect, and sometimes in relation to their social role. Taken together, these verses present a clear and authentic picture of women as envisaged within the Islamic philosophy of life.