فیمنزم اور اسلام: حقوق نسواں اور تصورِ عورت کا تحقیقی و تنقیدی جائزہ

Abstract

In the modern era, various movements advocating women’s rights are highly active, and their popularity is increasing day by day. Although feminism originated in the previous century and has taken different forms in different countries, the nature of its demands also varies from one movement to another. This article, however, focuses specifically on contemporary feminism in Pakistan. It critically and analytically examines the various demands and slogans of these movements—such as “My body, my choice”—and other similar ideologies that are in conflict with the true spirit of Islam.

The study aims to demonstrate that Islam is the foremost protector of women’s rights and to highlight how the true status and dignity of women in Islam are often misrepresented or denied. Furthermore, this article responds to the objections raised by Orientalists and contemporary feminists who attempt to portray women’s status in Islam as inferior, such as claims regarding the woman’s testimony being half that of a man and issues related to inheritance rights.

On the other hand, there exists another perspective that views women as passive beings, confining them solely to domestic responsibilities, depriving them of education and intellectual development, distancing them from progress, and associating this restrictive notion with Islam. By examining the arguments of both viewpoints, this descriptive study discusses women’s rights and social status in Islam, emphasizing how Islam serves as a guardian of women’s dignity.

The article further evaluates whether the voices raised by feminist movements on behalf of women are truly effective for women, or whether Muslim women already possess the rights being publicly demanded through slogans, protests, and demonstrations. This research seeks to establish that Islam does not hinder women’s progress nor deprive them of their rights; rather, Muslim women are granted rights and opportunities equal to those of men.